John Dzwonkowski, 38, faces two counts of felony retail theft after allegedly swiping items from the same Walgreens store multiple times within a week's period, including cleaning supplies, toilet paper, and other household essentials.
A Milwaukee man has been charged with felony retail theft for allegedly stealing items from the same Walgreens store three times during a one-week span. John Dzwonkowski, 38, faces two counts of the felony offense, according to police records obtained by Fox 6.
The criminal complaint details a series of incidents reported at a Walgreens store on Howell Avenue in Milwaukee. On September 18, store management contacted police after observing a suspect enter the store and begin filling a backpack with merchandise. The stolen items included soaps, cosmetics, and toilet paper, with an estimated retail value of $178.
Milwaukee Man Accused of Stealing Cleaning and Household Goods from Walgreens Three Times in a Week
Two days later, on September 20, officers were summoned to the same Walgreens location for another theft complaint. This time, the suspect was seen taking razors, lotions, and other cosmetic items, placing them in two bags. The value of the stolen goods was estimated at $435.
Surveillance footage from September 25 captured the same individual entering the Walgreens store again and taking 107 cleaning and household goods items valued at $889.63. The suspect was observed leaving the store but later returned and took a 20-ounce soda without paying.
Milwaukee Man Accused of Stealing Cleaning and Household Goods from Walgreens Three Times in a Week
Police identified Dzwonkowski as the suspect in all three incidents based on the surveillance footage and witness accounts. He was scheduled to make his initial court appearance this week.
The alleged thefts highlight the ongoing issue of retail theft, which has been a growing concern for businesses in recent years. Walgreens, in particular, has faced criticism for not doing enough to prevent shoplifting incidents. In February, the company announced a plan to invest $250 million in loss prevention measures, including hiring additional security personnel and deploying new technology.
The Milwaukee Police Department has urged residents to report any suspicious activity at retail stores and to assist in deterring theft by observing the "See Something, Say Something" principle.
