North Austin News

On December 5, 2024, the Austin Police Department's North Metro Tactical Unit and North Criminal Investigation Division conducted a "shoplifting blitz" operation in the Lakeline Mall area of North Austin, Texas. The initiative aimed to support local retailers by addressing shoplifting incidents through apprehensions and appropriate law enforcement actions.

During this operation, several arrests were made:

In one case at Kohl’s on Lakeline Blvd., officers responded to a report of four individuals concealing unpaid merchandise in a baby stroller. The suspects attempted to flee but were quickly apprehended. Officers recovered approximately $1,100 in merchandise from Kohl’s and an additional $1,200 worth of stolen goods from other stores found in their vehicle. The suspects faced charges of Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity and were taken to Williamson County Jail.

At Lowe’s on N FM 620, officers arrested Javier Rios after he was seen leaving with an unpaid AC unit valued at $2,156. Rios also had two outstanding warrants for larceny. A shower kit valued at $609 was found in his vehicle, reportedly stolen from another Lowe’s location that day.

Another incident occurred at Target on Lakeline Mall Drive involving Donovan Clausen who was caught removing anti-theft devices from electronics. He fled but was detained near a vehicle where officers discovered additional stolen items and narcotics. Clausen faced charges for Theft and Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance. Christina Shell was also arrested with two counts of Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance.

Lastly, Martin Morales was identified as loading merchandise into a cart at Target before abandoning it when confronted by employees. He entered a vehicle which left the scene but was later stopped by officers who arrested Morales for Theft. Crystal Overby, the driver with an active arrest warrant, was also identified during this stop.