Man With a Lot of Cash Arrested for Stealing a Vacuum Cleaner at Target

Around 2:32 PM on November 24, 2024, Officers Jared Miller and Michael Dechert with the Mount Laurel Police Department responded to the Target at 4 Centerton Road on a report of a male shoplifter who was being detained in the asset protection office. They arrived on scene and walked into the loss prevention office. Officer Miller made contact with the alleged shoplifter, who was identified as Kelsey J. Johnson.

The asset protection employee told Officer Miller that Kelsey allegedly attempted to exit the store with an unpaid vacuum cleaner. The item usually retailed for $249, but that day it was on sale at $139. Officer Miller read Kelsey his Miranda rights, and he did answer some questions.

Kelsey was placed in handcuffs by Officer Miller and escorted to the patrol car. A search of his persons revealed a large amount of cash on his person. Officer Miller subsequently transported Kelsey to the Mount Laurel Police Department for further processing. He was charged with shoplifting under 2C:20-11B(1) and released pending his court appearance.

Court records indicate that as of March 12, 2025, Kelsey’s shoplifting charge was downgraded to Disorderly Conduct (Ordinance 109-1B). As a result of the plea agreement, Kelsey was fined a total of $233.

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