NEW HARTFORD — The New Hartford Police Department and New York State Police conducted a coordinated undercover retail theft enforcement operation July 10 that resulted in nine arrests, including multiple juveniles, at several commercial retail centers across town.
The operation was carried out by the New Hartford Police Department’s Criminal Investigative Division, New Hartford Police Patrol Division, and the New York State Police.
Support was also provided by store asset protection teams, all working in collaboration through the Loss Prevention Coalition, a partnership between law enforcement and major retailers including Target, Walmart, Home Depot, Hannaford, Lowe’s, and the businesses within Sangertown Square Mall.
The coalition promotes real time communication and a coordinated response to reduce both organized and opportunistic theft throughout New Hartford’s commercial corridors.
Initial arrests made July 10 included Kierstan M. Horender, 19, charged with criminal possession of stolen property 5th degree and endangering the welfare of a child.
Steven J. Allen, 49, was charged with petit larceny.
Jacqueline D. Thomas, 49, was charged with petit larceny.
Denzel A. Bun, 29, was charged with criminal possession of stolen property 5th degree.
Three juveniles, ages 15, 16 and 17, were each charged with criminal possession of stolen property 5th degree.
Later that day, officers responded to a separate incident at Target, where a previously trespassed 16-year-old juvenile returned to the premises.
Law enforcement was called after the juvenile refused to leave.
During the arrest, officers were surrounded by a crowd of unruly juveniles.
The juvenile actively resisted, thrashing and kicking the exterior of the patrol car door, causing significant damage to the vehicle.
The juvenile responsible was charged with criminal trespass, criminal mischief and obstructing governmental administration.
Additionally, Melissa Fernandez, 21, of Rome, was arrested for petit larceny after the detail had concluded.
Officers were called back to Target when store security observed her concealing unpaid merchandise.
All adult offenders were arrested and released on appearance tickets, returnable to New Hartford Town Court at a later date.
Juvenile offenders were released to the custody of their parents and are scheduled to appear at the Oneida County Probation Department at a later date.
