A Hillsborough County man is facing multiple felony charges after a creative, but ultimately failed, shoplifting scheme at two different Walmart stores. Deputies say Devan Cherry, 42, first stole an employee vest from a Walmart on Fletcher Avenue. He then drove to a second Walmart on Nebraska Avenue, put on the vest, and posed as an employee long enough to walk out with three Apple Watches valued at $837.
According to the sheriff’s office, Cherry was apprehended as he was getting into his vehicle in the parking lot. A search of the car turned up the stolen watches and a firearm. Because Cherry has prior felony convictions, he now faces charges of grand theft, burglary, and possession of a firearm as a felon. Deputies did not say if Cherry attempted to sell the watches or if this was connected to any larger retail theft operation.
This story has all the makings of a comedy sketch, but the real-world implications are serious. Retail theft continues to be a major issue across Florida, and law enforcement is cracking down. It also raises a bigger question about repeat offenders and guns. Should someone with a felony record even be able to get their hands on a firearm in the first place? Let us know what you think in the comments.
