Aurora police probe 45 suspects linked to $82K in retail thefts – Denver Gazette

Aurora police probe 45 suspects linked to $82K in retail thefts  Denver Gazette

The Aurora Police Department's Retail Theft Investigations Team is investigating 45 suspects linked to more than $82,000 in thefts. The Aurora Police Department’s Retail Theft Investigations Team is investigating 45 suspects linked to more than $82,000 in thefts. The new unit announced that it has opened cases involving “prolific shoplifters,” resulting in numerous arrests and the recovery of stolen merchandise. The team, which consists of one police officer, two detectives, and a supervising sergeant, began operations in mid-August. “Retail theft is not a victimless crime, and it will not be accepted as a cost of doing business in Aurora,” said Operations Division Deputy Chief Phil Rathbun.

“It drives up costs for consumers, deprives local governments of tax revenue needed to fund critical infrastructure and community services, and undermines the safety and economic vitality of our community.” Demonte Rodgers-Jenkins, 24, of Aurora, is a suspect in 17 cases involving more than $23,000 in losses. He was arrested Oct. 9 and faces felony charges in Arapahoe County District Court, including theft of $5,000 to $20,000 and attempted theft of $2,000 to $5,000. Jaquon Wickware, 33, of Aurora, is a suspect in 12 cases involving nearly $980 in losses. He was arrested Oct. 17 and faces misdemeanor theft charges in Arapahoe County Court. Wickware is currently wanted for failing to appear in court.