Organized Retail Fraud Targets Family Dollar, Target, and Other Stores in Maple Hill Pavilion

*KALAMAZOO, Mich.* — Dozens of parents and children are being accused of participating in what law enforcement officials are calling an organized retail fraud scheme, allegedly stealing candy from strip mall stores and reselling it for profit in Kalamazoo County.

According to police reports, there have been over 30 documented cases of the thefts and subsequent reselling of stolen candy from multiple locations across the county.

The "Candy Boys" Inside Stores

James Porter, attorney for Oshtemo Township, confirmed the extent of the problem, revealing that parents are allegedly driving children to strip mall stores so they can run inside and take candy. The stolen goods are then resold for profit.

"The kids can make up to $90 per box," Porter said.

Porter noted that store employees at retailers like Target have contacted law enforcement, reporting what they've called the "candy boys" — children who are allegedly aggressive in their attempts to grab merchandise.

Maple Hill Pavilion the Primary Target

The thefts have primarily targeted stores at Maple Hill Pavilion, located at 5022 West Main Street in the Oshtemo Township area. Police reports indicate that Family Dollar, Dollar Tree, Target, and Walgreens are the main stores being hit by the alleged criminal activity.

"Family Dollar, Dollar Tree, Target and Walgreens in the Maple Hill Pavilion are the main targets for the thefts," according to law enforcement sources.

The Maple Hill Pavilion, formerly known as Maple Hill Mall, has been redeveloped into a strip mall and currently houses various retail stores and services, including Hobby Lobby, GameStop, Petco, and the stores allegedly targeted in the candy theft ring.

Law Enforcement Response

Kalamazoo County Undersheriff Michelle Greenlee confirmed that there are several cases involving this alleged scheme within the county. She stated that investigations are currently underway that could result in criminal charges.

"Kalamazoo County Undersheriff Michelle Greenlee confirmed there are several cases involving this within the county. She said investigations are underway that could result in criminal charges, but was unable to share more details."

According to law enforcement sources, organized retail fraud charges are being considered as part of the investigation.

The Business Impact

The alleged candy theft ring has had a significant impact on the businesses operating at Maple Hill Pavilion. Store employees have repeatedly called law enforcement to report the incidents, citing the aggressive behavior of the children and their accomplices.

The pattern of thefts appears to be systematic, with parents allegedly orchestrating the operations to maximize profits from the reselling of stolen goods.

Ongoing Investigation

As of this report, no arrests have been publicly announced in connection with the alleged candy theft scheme. The Kalamazoo County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the matter, and law enforcement officials are reviewing all available evidence to determine the full scope of the criminal activity.

"Investigations are underway that could result in criminal charges," Greenlee said.

Community Concerns

The alleged candy theft ring has raised concerns among local residents and business owners. The systematic nature of the alleged crimes, involving both parents and children, represents a particularly troubling pattern of organized retail fraud that affects the local community and its businesses.

Law enforcement continues to monitor the situation closely, and additional details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.

Sources:

  • https://wzzm13.com/article/news/local/parents-kids-candy-reselling-scheme-kalamazoo/69-feafd2ec-a955-4cc0-91ef-7d9772911756
  • https://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/2026/04/candy-theft-scheme-police-investigating-31-cases-of-parents-kids-selling-stolen-sweets.html