05/13/2026
VBPD Takes Part in Multi-Jurisdictional Retail Theft Bust Totaling Over $1.6M
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA, May 13, 2026 – On April 7, 2026, the Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) Fourth Precinct Crime Unit, in collaboration with agencies across Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Walmart Global investigations, has successfully dismantled a sophisticated organized retail theft ring. The operation was responsible for over $1.66 million in losses across the Southeast.
The investigation began on January 17, 2024, following a high-value theft at a Virginia Beach Walmart. A second offense occurred in the city of Norfolk within 30 minutes. In a single morning, suspects bypassed secured electronics cages to steal nearly $40,000 in Apple products and gaming consoles. Forensic evidence, including a fingerprint recovered at the scene, identified Alexander Newman (M/24, Chesapeake). Further intelligence from Walmart’s regional investigators linked Newman to Tony McClease (M/35, Norfolk).
The investigation revealed a systematic pattern of thefts dating back to December 2023, spanning multiple jurisdictions including Roxboro, NC, and Yorktown, Chesapeake, Norfolk, and Henrico County, VA.
On January 26, 2024, the Hampton Police Division intercepted a suspect vehicle occupied by Tony McClease, uncovering an organized retail theft ring targeting local businesses. A search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of stolen merchandise, a firearm, and digital evidence revealing a structured criminal operation.
Investigators identified a four-person group engaged in thefts across Hampton Roads.
The Organization:
· Tony McClease (M/35) of Norfolk: Identified as the operational leader, directing thefts and managing distribution, even while incarcerated.
· Chane’l Stith (F/45) of Hampton: Identified as the primary "fence," responsible for marketing and selling stolen goods.
· Ariana Orkney (F/24) of Hampton: Facilitated logistics, including transportation, financial transactions, and communications to evade detection.
· Alexander Newman (M/24) of Chesapeake: Served as the "booster," executing the theft of goods.
Indictments:
Following a thorough investigation, Tony McClease, Chane’l Stith, and Alexander Newman were indicted for Organized Retail Theft, Grand Larceny, and Conspiracy.
“This investigation proves that crossing city or state lines provides no protection from accountability," said Police Chief Paul W. Neudigate. "We will not allow organized retail theft to be treated as a 'cost of doing business.' These suspects exploited multiple communities, and they will now face the full weight of charges from every jurisdiction they harmed."
The coordinated effort has effectively neutralized two interconnected criminal groups. Multiple suspects have been apprehended, and prosecutions are moving forward across all participating states.
This incident remains under investigation by the VBPD Detective Bureau. Anyone with information is asked to contact VBPD at (757) 385-4101 or anonymously through Crime Solvers at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP or P3Tips.com.
(Note: The charges mentioned in this press release are accusations, and the arrested individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.)
