Thanks to tips, TPD nabs cigarette thief
Web Producer: Mekita Rivas
TUCSON (KGUN9-TV) - Thanks to tips submitted via 88-CRIME, the suspect involved in a series of cigarette burglary incidents has been identified. An additional incident that occurred in Pima County, for which he was responsible, was also brought to light.
In a news release, Sgt. Maria Hawke said that the suspect, Cole Evan Neal, 24, is expected to be charged with nine counts of Third Degree Burglary, all felonies. He was transported and booked into the Pima County Jail.
TPD was seeking public assistance with identifying a serial cigarette thief, who had struck at least eight times between Nov. 1, 2012 and Jan. 9, 2013.
Hawke said that the suspect was believed to be responsible for the theft of more than $4000 in cigarettes.
The incidents occurred at several Circle K stores on the northwest side of Tucson. In each incident, he entered the store and walked directly behind the cashier counter. He then removed packs/cartons of cigarettes from the display case, placed them in a bag that he brought with him into the store, and left without paying for the items. In each incident, the suspect was captured on video surveillance and photographs from each event have been obtained.
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