by Watauga, TX — Police in North Texas have arrested a man accused of orchestrating a large-scale retail theft operation that targeted Target stores across multiple cities, resulting in the loss of more than $37,000 in stolen merchandise over a two-month span.
According to the Watauga Police Department, officers responded around 5 p.m. on Halloween to a Target store in the 8000 block of Denton Highway, after employees reported that a man had stolen more than $1,200 worth of Lego sets before fleeing the scene.
Suspect Arrested After Brief Standoff
Police identified the suspect as 28-year-old Winston Love, who was located shortly afterward at a nearby residence. After a brief standoff, Love was taken into custody without incident, officials said.
According to the press release, Love was charged with state jail felony theft and was found to have eight outstanding felony warrants related to theft in Tarrant, Dallas, and Rockwall counties. He is currently being held at the North Richland Hills Detention Center, and no bond had been set as of Sunday afternoon.
Recovered Stolen Goods and Narcotics
Investigators searched the home where Love had been staying and recovered additional stolen merchandise, along with illegal narcotics. Officers also seized a vehicle believed to have been used in the thefts, as well as approximately $5,000 in cash.
Police believe Love may be part of a larger retail theft ring operating throughout Texas and Oklahoma, according to officials.
Pattern of Theft Across 14 Cities
Authorities say Love is suspected of targeting Target stores in 14 North Texas cities, stealing tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of items — mostly high-value merchandise such as electronics, toys, and collectibles. The thefts reportedly occurred over a two-month period.
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“This kind of organized retail crime impacts stores, employees, and consumers across the region,” one police spokesperson said. “We’re continuing to work with other jurisdictions to identify anyone else involved.”
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains active as law enforcement agencies review evidence and coordinate with neighboring departments. Additional charges are expected as police process recovered items and surveillance footage.
Authorities also said they are working closely with Target’s loss prevention team to identify other potential theft locations tied to the same suspect.
Anyone with information related to the case or similar thefts in the region is encouraged to contact Watauga Police or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
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