Towanda Couple Sentenced for Stealing Thousands from Dandy

The pair stole over $23,000 from the local convenience store over several years.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A Bradford County couple, Robert A. Sparks and Alyssa L. Sparks, were recently sentenced for stealing thousands of dollars from a Dandy convenience store in Towanda, Pennsylvania. Alyssa Sparks, a former manager at the store, was sentenced to 30 days to 21 months in jail and ordered to pay back over $23,000, while Robert Sparks received 5 years of probation and the same restitution amount.

Why it matters

The case highlights the ongoing problem of employee theft and fraud at retail stores, which can have significant financial impacts on small businesses. The lengthy investigation and multiple convictions also demonstrate the seriousness with which authorities are treating these types of crimes in the local community.

The details

A long-term investigation revealed that Alyssa Sparks, while working as a manager at the Dandy convenience store in Towanda, allowed for potentially hundreds of thefts to take place over a period of years. Robert Sparks and other individuals, including his wife Alyssa, conspired to steal money and merchandise from the store during this time.

  • The crimes took place over a period of several years.
  • Alyssa Sparks and Robert Sparks were recently sentenced for their roles in the thefts.

The players

Alyssa L. Sparks

A 31-year-old former manager at the Dandy convenience store in Towanda, Pennsylvania who was convicted of felony theft charges.

Robert A. Sparks

A 40-year-old Bradford County resident who conspired with his wife Alyssa and others to steal money and merchandise from the Dandy store over a period of years.

Dandy

A convenience store located in Towanda, Pennsylvania that was the victim of the thefts perpetrated by the Sparks couple and others.

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The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of strong internal controls and oversight at retail businesses to prevent employee theft and fraud, which can have significant financial impacts on small companies. It also demonstrates the willingness of local authorities to thoroughly investigate and prosecute these types of crimes in order to protect the community.