After her recent theft conviction, a lady from Memphis will be forced to find a new place for her shopping needs. The woman in question, identified as Ashley Cross, 37, has allegedly attracted attention due to her incessant shoplifting at Walmart locations and a clever side hustle of a self-checkout scam, according to recent reports. As a consequence of her actions, Cross is now faced with a nationwide ban from all Walmart outlets, a precedent that comes as a result of her longstanding theft history with the retail giant.
Cross now faces charges that include criminal trespass and stealing merchandise valued under $1,000. She remains in custody with a set bond of $7,500. This turn of events came after a witness caught sight of two women seemingly pilfering items from a Walmart Store.
The alleged theft took place in a South Memphis Walmart. Here, Cross had conceived a smart, albeit illegal scheme, where she used an outdated battery barcode to manipulate her self-checkout totals. By scanning all her belongings under the $1 price tag of the dated barcode, she was able to deceive the system into underpricing her goods.
Cross had managed to swipe away 11 packs of ramen, a pair of women’s boots, a pair of blue jeans, and a T-shirt without getting caught. Under normal pricing, the amassed goods would have cost her $137.34.
Following the incident, Cross found herself listed on the AOA, otherwise known as the Authorization of Agency list. This legally binding document allows property owners to authorize law enforcement officers to take action, including arresting persons found to be trespassing. Being on this list means that Cross is effectively prohibited from setting foot in any Walmart across the country, a consequence of her prior shoplifting records.
Interestingly, the police disclosed that this is not the first time Cross has been caught in the act. Evidence suggests that even prior to this shoplifting stint, Cross had a history of stealing. According to the available records, her sticky fingers had once lifted $33 worth of merchandise from Circle K, a gas station chain back in April 2024.
Moreover, in February 2023, Cross was reportedly involved in yet another theft, this time from Nordstrom Rack. The loot reportedly stacked up to a significant value of $502. Apparently, her spree did not end there; Cross was associated with stealing items worth $281.12 from a Walmart store in 2019.
Another addition to Cross’ string of rowdy exploits came in the form of stealing $381.25 worth of goods from Dick’s Sporting Goods. All this, along with her recent Walmart escapade, has made it clear that this was not a one-time misdemeanor but rather a series of incidents orchestrated by Cross.
In response to the incidents, Walmart issued a statement underscoring their commitment to the comfort and satisfaction of their shoppers. The release clarifies that they prioritize the wellbeing and convenience of both their customers and staff to ensure a favorable shopping atmosphere.
The statement also pointed out the rarity of such incidents, assuring the public that episodes of unwelcome activities are typically uncommon within the premises of their stores. The company openly refuses to tolerate individuals who disrupt the peaceful and positive experiences of their customers.
The duration of Cross’ ban from Walmart still remains ambiguous. With no clarification from the company, it is unforeseeable when, or if at all, she will be granted access back into their stores nationwide.
Cross is now awaiting her trial, which is due to occur on February 19 at 9 a.m. As she stands in the crosshairs of multiple theft charges and the subsequent ramifications, it remains to be seen how this case evolves and impacts her future.
While instances of theft are inevitable, stores rely on rigorous surveillance and strict adherence to their policies to maintain a secure shopping environment. As with the case of Ashley Cross, retailers are taking a stringent stand against theft in an effort to discourage potential transgressors and ensure safe shopping experiences for the rest.
In conclusion, no matter how clever a thieving strategy claims to be, the consequences of such actions are often severe and imminent. Individuals caught engaging in such illegal activities are likely to face swift and stern punishment, as demonstrated in this case. The case serves as a powerful deterrent and a clear message – retailers will not sit idle while their businesses suffer loss due to theft or fraud.