Man Arrested for Repeat Thefts at Sacramento Hardware Store

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 33-year-old man named Anthony Eastman was arrested and charged this week after he allegedly stole merchandise at least six times in less than a month from a Sacramento County hardware store. Eastman was caught on Monday after he entered the store, stole items, left, then came back and stole more, according to police.

Why it matters

Repeat retail theft is an ongoing issue that costs businesses billions each year. This case highlights the challenges stores face in preventing and prosecuting serial shoplifters, especially those who are already on probation or have outstanding warrants.

The details

According to the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office, Eastman was still near the Harbor Freight Tools store and still in possession of the stolen items, as well as some drug paraphernalia, when deputies found him. An employee reported that Eastman had stolen from the same business six times in the past three weeks, incidents that had gone unreported previously. The cumulative value of the merchandise stolen was several thousand dollars, and the employee positively identified Eastman during a field show-up.

• In the past 3 weeks, Eastman allegedly stole from the store 6 times.
• On Monday, Eastman allegedly entered the store, stole items, left, then came back and stole more.

What’s next

Eastman was booked on suspicion of felony grand theft and misdemeanor possession, with a total bail of $20,000. The judge will determine if he will be allowed out on bail.