A trio of bandits — two already wanted on outstanding warrants — are accused of shoplifting nearly $785 in clothing last Wednesday from the Williamsburg Premium Outlets, police said.
Brittany Cook, a 27-year-old Poquoson resident, 41-year-old Christopher Williams of Hampton and 36-year-old Jennifer E. McLemore of Williamsburg are charged with grand larceny and conspiracy to commit larceny, James City County Police Department spokeswoman Stephanie Williams said.
In addition to the new felony charges, Cook had an outstanding warrant in York County for possession of scheduled I or II drugs. Christopher Williams, on the other hand, was found to have two outstanding warrants out of Hampton, including one for contempt and unauthorized use.
It all began on April 19 around 3:30 p.m. when police responded to a shoplifting complaint at the Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store on Richmond Road.
According to a James City County police report, Cook and Williams were seen on store surveillance camera footage entering the shop and stealing clothing.
Police believe Cook and Williams stole nearly $784.91 worth of clothing from the specialty shop, stuffing the goods in a duffel bag before dashing out the store and fleeing the scene in a vehicle.
Following the theft, the responding officers tracked down the vehicle driven by McLemore, pulling the trio over on Route 199, just past Richmond Road.
Upon further investigation, McLemore also was charged with driving with a suspended license.
Police say, when Cook was first asked her name by officers, she provided a false name and was further charged with providing a false identity to police officer.
McLemore and Cook were released on bail pending court appearances on May 18 at Williamsburg James City County General District Court.
Williams is in custody at the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail pending his hearing at the above-mentioned court, also on May 18.
