Berks woman shoplifts 99 items from grocery store, creates scene when stopped, police say

Steven Henshaw, Reading Eagle, Pa.
·1 min read
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Nov. 23—A Sinking Spring woman was arrested after shoplifting 99 items with a total value of $1,1000 from a Spring Township grocery store and shoving an employee at the store entrance before running off, police said.

Jaylynn Maurer, 20, of the first block of Shillington Road was taken into custody by police in the parking lot of Giant, 2104 Van Reed Road, shortly after the incident Tuesday about 1 p.m., Spring Township police said Wednesday.

She was charged with summary counts of disorderly conduct and harassment along with a felony count of retail theft.

Maurer remained free to await a hearing following arraignment before Senior District Judge Gloria W. Stitzel in Reading Central Court.

According to the criminal complaint:

Maurer selected the items on the shelf — 19 grocery items, 25 health and beauty items, and 55 miscellaneous items — and put them in a shopping cart. She bypassed all check-out areas and tried to leave the store.

After employees stopped her, took the cart and called police, she tossed a display outside the entrance and acted belligerent. When a female employee tried to stop Maurer from damaging store property, Maurer shoved her and ran toward Van Reed Road. Police arrested her in the parking lot.