Shoplifting, Fraud, and Scams Reported in Pennsylvania

Police log details recent incidents of theft, harassment, and DUI in Chester County

Apr. 15, 2026 at 5:08am

An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled receipt or discarded wallet, the harsh lighting and stark black background creating a gritty, investigative mood around the aftermath of a property crime or financial fraud.A recent wave of property crimes and financial scams in Chester County has law enforcement and residents on high alert.Media Today

The Pennsylvania State Police have reported a series of incidents in Chester County, including a shoplifting arrest, a harassment case involving a 13-year-old girl, a fraud investigation involving $11,267 stolen, a hit-and-run accident, and a DUI arrest with a 0.203 blood alcohol level. The Kennett Square Police Department has also warned residents about a phone scam where callers are spoofing the department's number.

Why it matters

These reports highlight the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing property crimes, fraud, and public safety issues in the region. The scam warning also underscores the need for residents to be vigilant about protecting their personal and financial information from potential thieves.

The details

The incidents include the arrest of Thomas Abruzzese, 70, for allegedly stealing $57 worth of merchandise from a Wegmans grocery store, as well as a report of a 13-year-old girl being harassed at a Sky Zone trampoline park. Police are also investigating a $11,267 theft by fraud and forgery case, and a hit-and-run accident. Additionally, Kennett Square police have warned residents about a phone scam where callers are spoofing the department's number in an attempt to obtain personal information. Separately, David Wilson III, 31, was arrested for DUI after a traffic stop revealed a 0.203 blood alcohol level.

  • On March 25, Thomas Abruzzese was arrested for shoplifting from Wegmans.
  • On March 6, a 13-year-old girl reported being harassed at Sky Zone in Concord Township.
  • On March 28, a hit-and-run accident occurred on Village Drive in East Marlborough Township.
  • On March 30, John Schlegel, 83, was charged with harassment of a mail carrier in Kennett Square.
  • On April 4, David Wilson III was arrested for DUI with a 0.203 blood alcohol level in Kennett Square.

The players

Thomas Abruzzese

A 70-year-old West Chester resident arrested for shoplifting $57 worth of merchandise from Wegmans.

John Schlegel

An 83-year-old West Chester man charged with harassment of a mail carrier in Kennett Square.

David Wilson III

A 31-year-old Coatesville resident arrested for DUI with a 0.203 blood alcohol level in Kennett Square.

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What they’re saying

“We must remain vigilant against scams and protect our personal information.”

— Kennett Square Police Department

The takeaway

These incidents underscore the ongoing need for law enforcement and community members to work together to address property crimes, fraud, and public safety issues in the region. Residents should remain vigilant about protecting their personal information and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.