Thieves nabbed in $250k meat heist

Police say a secret meat-swiping operation at a Portmore restaurant was exposed after cameras caught the alleged thieves red-handed and a Probox packed with 18 bags of meat was stopped in its tracks.

Four people have now been charged with larceny as a servant, simple larceny, and conspiracy after the alleged heist, which investigators say took place at a restaurant in Lakes Pen, Portmore, St Catherine between October 20 and November 16.

Those charged are:

* Douglas "Walla" Wallace, 50, butcher of Emerson Avenue, Kingston 20

* Delroy Salmon, 66, car wash attendant of Baldwin Crescent, Duhaney Park, Kingston 20

* Clinton "Sam" Barnes, 69, retiree of Emerson Avenue, Kingston 20

* Shawna-Kay "Wingie" Cross, 34, sales representative of Brook Avenue, Duhaney Park, Kingston 20

According to reports, the alleged meat-smuggling ring came to light after the owner noticed "irregularities" and checked the surveillance footage. Police say the video from October 20 showed Wallace removing items from the business without permission.

But the investigation took a hot turn on Sunday, November 16, when Wallace was allegedly seen again--this time removing several bags of meat and loading them into a white Toyota Probox, with Salmon, Barnes and Cross allegedly helping.

The police were alerted and the Probox was intercepted shortly after, with all four accused aboard.

A search of the vehicle reportedly turned up 18 bags of meat valued at J$251,996, stuffed in the trunk.

Wallace reportedly gave a caution statement, and all four were arrested and charged.

Their court date is now being finalised.

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