DESTIN, Fla. – Three Mobile, Alabama residents allegedly involved in the theft of more than $3000 in merchandise from a Destin retail store Tuesday were arrested by deputies with the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO).
According to the OCSO, the three suspects tried to make a getaway after the theft, but its deputies blocked their car in a restaurant parking lot and took them into custody.
The OCSO said the alleged theft occurred at Ulta Beauty Supply Store on Emerald Coast Parkway.
A store employee told the OCSO that the woman and two men entered the store Tuesday evening around 7 p.m. She said they loaded various perfumes and colognes into two Louis Vuitton purses and an ULTA handbasket before leaving without paying.
She said she recognized the individuals from prior thefts at the store, the OCSO said.
An OCSO deputy spotted the suspects’ car on Highway 98 and attempted a traffic stop, but the car sped away.
The trio was ultimately blocked in at a restaurant parking lot, the OCSO said.
Earl James III, 20, reportedly a passenger in the vehicle, tried to run but got snagged by bushes, the OCSO said.
The OCSO said James admitted being involved in organized retail theft and selling stolen property since at least 2014. He is charged at this time with dealing in stolen property.
Jikiria Harris, 21, is charged with grand retail theft and knowingly driving with a suspended license.
Deaundray Harris, 17, is also charged with grand retail theft.
Deputies say they found merchandise believed stolen from another Destin business inside the car as well.
The investigation is continuing.
