SOUTH DEERFIELD — Police followed a hot lead, if not a strong scent, and caught two Connecticut residents accused of smuggling about $1,000 worth of merchandise from Yankee Candle’s flagship store on Routes 5 and 10 Saturday.
Deerfield Police Patrolman Adam Sokoloski said Yankee Candle staff spotted two people leaving the store carrying canvas bags full of stolen items and quickly called 911 from the parking lot, providing “great information,” including “the car description and plate number,” police said.
Deerfield Police reported that the theft was thwarted after “Yankee Candle staff noticed the products being smuggled out of the store in canvas bags and attempted to stop the involved parties. They fled but a description was promptly broadcast.”
Just as the car was turning onto the Interstate-91 ramp heading south, Sokoloski continued, Whately Police officer Kristjan Viise pulled the car over. Police found candles in the backseat and more in the trunk. Sokoloski, who was at the scene along with Deerfield Police officer Dane Jobst, said the driver and passenger admitted they’d been in the store, didn’t have receipts, and “confessed stealing.”
All of the stolen items were recovered, and police are seeking criminal charges for larceny for the alleged shoplifters.
You can reach Andy Castillo
at: acastillo@recorder.com
or 413-772-0261, ext. 263
On Twitter: @AndyCCastillo