Newark, Delaware – Two Maryland residents were arrested Wednesday afternoon in Newark on felony retail theft and drug charges following a shoplifting investigation.
According to Delaware State Police, 47-year-old Ron Wardlaw and 43-year-old Lashonda Rooks, both of Baltimore, were taken into custody around 4 p.m. on February 18 after troopers responded to Dick’s Sporting Goods on Centurion Drive for a reported shoplifting in progress.
Investigators allege Wardlaw and Rooks walked through the store selecting more than $3,300 worth of merchandise. Police said Wardlaw allegedly entered a fitting room with the items and later exited carrying a shopping cart filled with merchandise near the front door. Troopers allege Wardlaw spoke with an unidentified third accomplice, who entered the store searching for the cart before employees recovered the merchandise.
When troopers arrived, Wardlaw allegedly attempted to drive away but was stopped a short distance from the store. Rooks was located inside the store, where police allege she was cutting security tags from items with a tool. Both were apprehended without incident. The third individual fled before officers arrived.
During a search of the vehicle, troopers reported locating approximately 17.85 grams of suspected heroin.
Wardlaw was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance Tier 3 Quantity, Attempted Organized Retail Crime Over $1,500, and Conspiracy Second Degree. Rooks faces similar charges, along with Possession of Shoplifting Tools. Both were arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court 3 and committed to state correctional facilities on secured bonds exceeding $60,000.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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