Harford County, MD — The Harford County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a woman accused of carrying out a weeks-long shoplifting spree across local retail stores — and officials say she openly admitted to stealing every day.
Authorities announced the arrest of 34-year-old Paulaina L. Nechay, a resident of Halethorpe, on November 21 after connecting her to multiple thefts at a popular shopping center in the region.
Investigators allege Nechay was responsible for a string of high-value thefts, hitting the same store twice within nine days and fleeing each time before officers arrived.
First Theft: Over $1,000 in Apparel Reported Stolen
The first reported incident took place on October 30, when deputies were called to the Festival Shopping Center for a past-occurred theft. According to the sheriff’s office, a female suspect — later identified as Nechay — walked into a retail store, grabbed more than $1,000 worth of apparel, and immediately bolted from the store.
Witnesses told investigators that the woman ran to a waiting vehicle and sped off before authorities could respond.
Second Theft: High-End Appliance and Clothing Taken Days Later
Nine days later, on November 8, deputies were dispatched to the same store for another theft involving the same suspect. This time, Nechay allegedly stole a high-priced kitchen appliance along with more clothing, totaling another $600 in losses.
The repeated hits prompted deputies to intensify their search, ultimately helping them track down the suspect’s vehicle.
Deputies Locate Suspect at Edgewood Motel
A breakthrough came just days after the second incident. Investigators located a vehicle matching the description of the getaway car parked at a motel in Edgewood. Deputies determined that Nechay was staying at the location.
When authorities made contact with her, they say she openly admitted to daily thefts — claiming she attempted to steal $500 to $600 worth of merchandise every single day.
Deputies also reported that Nechay confessed to selling the stolen merchandise at gas stations for half price, suggesting an ongoing pattern of shoplifting for profit rather than isolated incidents.
Suspect Released After Arrest; Investigation Continues
Following her arrest, Nechay was transported for processing and later released on a $3,000 unsecured bond, meaning she did not have to pay to be released while awaiting future court appearances.
Officials say the Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate additional potential thefts or related criminal activity, given Nechay’s admission of regular, ongoing shoplifting.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether more charges may be added as detectives review surveillance footage and speak with area retailers who may have been targeted.
Retail Theft Concerns Rising Across Maryland
The case reflects a growing concern among Maryland law enforcement and retailers, who have reported increases in coordinated thefts, resale schemes, and daily shoplifting operations. Many stores have already begun adjusting security, staffing, and theft-prevention policies to keep up with the trend.
Harford County officials emphasized that ongoing community tips and footage from local businesses remain vital to resolving cases like this.
Do you think Maryland should tighten penalties for repeat shoplifters — especially those who admit to daily thefts?
Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion.
