Fairfield (NJ): The Fairfield Police Department announces the arrest of Melissa Horne (23), of East Orange, NJ and Gialani Olmedo (22), of Brooklyn, NY for shoplifting on July 3, 2023.
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On that date at approximately 5:55 pm, Officer Patrick Reynolds was patrolling the Target parking lot when he was approached by their security. Â Officer Reynolds was advised that the store had a shoplifting in progress occurring. Â They advised that one suspect was detained in the store and the other had fled the scene in a black BMW.
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Additional units were dispatched to assist Officer Reynolds. Â Officer Reynolds proceeded inside with security to where the detained suspect was while other officers canvassed the area for the BMW.
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He located Olmedo in the security office. Â It is alleged that Olmedo and Horne filled a shopping cart with baby formula and various other items. Â They proceeded to the self-checkout, where they allegedly only scanned a few items in the cart. Â As they walked passed all other points of sale, security stopped them. Â Horne fled the scene at this time. Â The total value shoplifted was $351.47.
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Olmedo was placed under arrest for shoplifting.  During the investigation, it is alleged that Olmedo provided officers with a false name.  The correct name was verified through a NY driver’s license located in her wallet. Â
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Officer Reynolds transported Olmedo to police headquarters for processing. Â Horne was contacted by phone and turned herself in at police headquarters. Â Olmedo was charged with shoplifting, conspiracy and hindering apprehension. Â Horne was charged with shoplifting and conspiracy. Â Both suspects were released on their own recognizance and are scheduled to appear at the Essex County Courthouse in Newark, NJ on September 14, 2023 for an initial appearance.
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(Charges are merely allegations until the defendants are proven guilty or plead guilty in a court of law).
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Issued by: Officer Stacy Chiarolanza (PIO)