Deputies say a Riverview man manipulated self-checkouts at Winn-Dixie stores, stealing nearly $10,000 in merchandise over an eight-month period.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office says a Riverview man spent eight months manipulating self-checkout lanes at several Winn-Dixie locations, stealing nearly $10,000 worth of merchandise.
Detectives say Julian Mitchell, 44, manipulated the self-checkout process to avoid paying full price before leaving the stores.
Among the items deputies say he discounted for himself were several packs of steaks, chicken wings, laundry detergent, diapers, toilet paper, and other groceries.
Winn-Dixie provided surveillance footage showing Mitchell stealing during 108 separate self-checkout transactions at four Winn-Dixie locations across Hillsborough County, deputies say.
Deputies arrested him on February 4. his charges include retail theft $3,000 or more (two counts), possession of a controlled substance, and violation of probation.
“This arrest sends a clear message that organized retail theft will not be tolerated in Hillsborough County,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Crimes like this don’t just hurt businesses, they drive up prices for hardworking families at the checkout line. Our Retail Theft Unit works closely with our retail partners to identify repeat offenders, hold them accountable, and protect our community.”