Two Women Arrested in DeSoto County Retail Theft Case
DeSoto County deputies quickly identified and arrested two women connected to a retail theft reported last Tuesday evening.
According to the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office, store surveillance from Bin Hut showed two women filling their bags with stolen merchandise. Additional footage from a nearby business captured their getaway vehicle.
By the next morning, within just 10 minutes of starting their shift, Detective Sergeant Bailey, working with North Port Police Detective Gonzalez, had identified both suspects and their vehicle. Further investigation by Detective Baun revealed the women had multiple prior retail theft convictions in both Florida and Iowa.
With assistance from Detective Grace, deputies located the suspects. Tracy Rees was taken into custody without incident, while Michelle Wilmer was found attempting to hide in a closet under a pile of clothes.
The women face the following charges:
Tracy Rees: Felony Retail Theft, Providing False Information to Law Enforcement
Michelle Wilmer: Felony Retail Theft, Resisting Officer Without Violence
The Sheriff’s Office credited the quick arrests to strong teamwork and efficient communication between agencies.
Photo Courtesy Of Desoto County Sheriff’s Office
