SURVEILANCE CATCHES EMPLOYEE THEFT

By Jon Mayhew

After a six-month investigation, a Walmart pharmacy technician in Lincolnton is charged with embezzling from her employer, after being caught in the act on store surveilance cameras.

The ongoing investigation into Jodey Leann Chapman, Old Lincolnton Crouse Road, commenced in September 2008 and concluded on March 3 according to Lincolnton Police Lt. Randy Willis.

“She was witnessed ringing up two cell phone chargers,” said Willis, adding the chargers were placed in a Walmart bag. “The items were placed under a counter.”

Later, according to Willis, the same camera caught Chapman taking a pair of scissors and cutting the tops off the two packages.

“She then placed the empty packages into another plastic store bag and threw that bag in the trash,” said Willis.

Around 4pm Wednesday, Walmart officials reviewed store security tapes, calling Chapman into an office. According to Willis’ report, Chapman admitted to stealing, as well as taking money from the cash register.

Currently, investigators say Chapman took $20 from the pharmacy cash register in November 2008. However, the investigation is continuing into over $200 missing from the pharmacy register over the last six months.

Chapman was arrested at Walmart and charged with misdemeanor larceny and felony embezzlement. She was taken to the Harven A. Crouse Detention Center under a $7,000 secured bond.