Vacuum Cleaner Thief Caught on Camera at Mayfield Heights Target

Surveillance footage shows suspect failing to scan barcode during checkout

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:36pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a security tag or anti-theft device, its metallic surface reflecting the harsh flash of the camera against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty visual that conceptually illustrates the crime of retail theft.Surveillance footage captures the suspect disabling a security device before walking out of the store with a stolen vacuum cleaner.Mayfield Heights Today

A 38-year-old Highland Heights man was caught on camera stealing a $629 vacuum cleaner from a Target store in Mayfield Heights, Ohio. The suspect failed to scan the barcode at checkout despite using a handheld scanner to pay for other items in his cart. Surveillance video also showed him removing the security device from the vacuum and a TV he was purchasing.

Why it matters

Retail theft is an ongoing issue that costs businesses billions each year. This case highlights how security cameras and vigilant checkout procedures can help identify and apprehend shoplifters, though the prevalence of such crimes remains a challenge for retailers.

The details

According to the police report, the suspect, a 38-year-old Highland Heights man, stole the $629 vacuum cleaner by failing to scan its barcode at the checkout when he paid for other items in his shopping cart. Surveillance video confirmed he made no attempt to scan the vacuum's barcode, despite using the handheld scanner to pay for a TV that was also in his cart. The video also showed the suspect removing the security device from both the vacuum and the TV while shopping.

  • On March 21, the suspect stole the vacuum cleaner from the Target store.
  • On March 23, two teenage boys were caught on camera refusing to leave Nitro's Bar and throwing a folding chalkboard sign across the dining area.

The players

Highland Heights man

A 38-year-old man who stole a $629 vacuum cleaner from a Target store by failing to scan its barcode at checkout.

Euclid boy

A 17-year-old boy who was charged with trespassing and criminal mischief after an incident at Nitro's Bar.

Warrensville Heights boy

A 16-year-old boy who was charged with trespassing and criminal mischief after an incident at Nitro's Bar.

Cleveland Heights man

A 31-year-old man who was arrested for criminal mischief and jaywalking after being seen trying to break into cars around Master Pizza.

Elk & Elk CFO

The chief financial officer of the Elk & Elk law firm, who reported approximately 30 fraudulent transaction attempts on the firm's bank account.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in Mayfield Heights.”

— Robert Jenkins, Mayfield Heights resident

What’s next

The suspect in the vacuum cleaner theft will be charged and face prosecution. The two teenage boys involved in the incident at Nitro's Bar will also be charged in juvenile court.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of retail theft, which costs businesses billions each year. While security measures like surveillance cameras can help identify and apprehend shoplifters, the prevalence of such crimes remains a concern for retailers and communities.