Man accused of 70 thefts at Glendale Walmart using barcode swapping

Authorities say Harold Carlson swapped barcodes on higher-priced items to pay less at self-checkout

Mar. 28, 2026 at 3:54am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 45-year-old man has been accused of stealing merchandise dozens of times from a Walmart in Glendale, Arizona by swapping barcodes from low-cost items onto more expensive products at the self-checkout. Police say surveillance footage and the suspect's own confession show he committed around 70 incidents of this 'ticket swapping' scheme over several months, resulting in over $1,000 in losses for the retailer.

Why it matters

Retail theft through barcode swapping is a growing problem for retailers, costing them millions in lost revenue each year. This case highlights how sophisticated some shoplifters have become in exploiting self-checkout technology, raising questions about store security measures and the impact of organized retail crime on local businesses.

The details

According to court documents, the investigation began when a Glendale police officer was called to assist in apprehending a suspect at the Northern Crossing Walmart. Walmart employees had observed the suspect, identified as Harold Carlson, repeatedly in the toy aisle over several days, raising concerns about possible fraudulent activity. Surveillance footage showed Carlson selecting items, then manipulating a G.I. Joe toy before going to the self-checkout and scanning the item, which rang up as the much cheaper Cup Noodles. When confronted, Carlson consented to a search and police found two Cup Noodles barcodes with double-sided tape in his pocket. Investigators say additional footage showed Carlson using the same method to purchase higher-priced items at significantly reduced prices on around 70 occasions between December 2025 and March 2026, resulting in over $1,000 in losses.

  • On March 28, 2026, Carlson was apprehended at the Walmart store.
  • The investigation began on March 28, 2026 when police were called to assist.
  • Carlson allegedly committed around 70 incidents of barcode swapping between December 28, 2025 and March 28, 2026.

The players

Harold Carlson

A 45-year-old man accused of stealing merchandise dozens of times from a Glendale Walmart by swapping barcodes from low-cost items onto higher-priced products at the self-checkout.

Glendale Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the alleged retail thefts by Harold Carlson at the Glendale Walmart.

Walmart

The retail chain whose Northern Crossing store in Glendale, Arizona was the target of the alleged barcode swapping scheme by Harold Carlson.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Carlson is facing dozens of retail theft charges related to the alleged incidents. The judge will decide whether to allow him to be released on bail at a hearing next week.

The takeaway

This case highlights the sophisticated tactics some shoplifters are using to exploit self-checkout technology, and the significant financial impact that organized retail crime can have on local businesses. It raises questions about store security measures and the need for stronger deterrents and penalties to combat this growing problem.