Cash Box Stolen from Girl Scouts Selling Cookies in New Hampshire

Police identify suspect who fled with $1,000 from troop's fundraiser

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A cash box containing around $1,000 was stolen from Girl Scouts selling cookies outside a Walmart in West Lebanon, New Hampshire. The Girl Scouts were raising money for a celebratory trip when a man grabbed the metal box and fled into the woods. Police followed the suspect's trail to a nearby parking lot and identified him as a Vermont resident who is currently in jail.

Why it matters

The theft of funds raised by Girl Scouts for a special trip is a concerning incident that highlights the vulnerability of community fundraisers and the need to ensure the safety of young volunteers. It also raises questions about crime prevention and security measures at retail locations where these types of events often take place.

The details

According to the Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains, the incident occurred on Wednesday around 1:50 pm as the Girl Scout and her mother were about to close up their cookie booth outside the Walmart store. A man approached, grabbed the cash box, and ran off into the woods behind the shopping plaza. Police followed the suspect's trail to a nearby parking lot, where surveillance video showed him getting into a white Jeep Grand Cherokee. While the cash box was later found in the woods, the $1,000 it contained was missing. Police have identified a suspect who lives in Vermont and is currently in jail there, and are in the process of obtaining an arrest warrant.

  • The incident occurred on Wednesday, February 26, 2026 around 1:50 pm.

The players

Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains

The local Girl Scouts organization whose troop was selling cookies to raise money for a celebratory trip.

Vermont Resident

The suspect identified by police as the individual who stole the cash box containing $1,000 from the Girl Scouts. He is currently in jail in Vermont.

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What they’re saying

“The Girl Scout and her mother were about to close up the booth when a man came up and then ran off with their cash box. Thankfully, both were unharmed during the incident.”

— Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains

What’s next

Police are in the process of obtaining an arrest warrant for the suspect, who lives in Vermont and is currently in jail there.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for enhanced security measures and community support to protect youth-led fundraising efforts, which are vital for organizations like the Girl Scouts to fulfill their mission and provide enriching experiences for young people.