BEDFORD — A local retail employee is facing felony theft charges after a loss prevention investigation allegedly uncovered a months-long scheme involving thousands of dollars in stolen goods.
Carmine Salazar, 19, of Bedford, is the subject of a probable cause affidavit filed by the Bedford Police Department following an investigation at Beall’s Outlet on James Avenue.
According to the affidavit filed by Officer Aaron Manke, the store’s loss prevention investigator reported that Salazar had been stealing from the company since November 2025. While an exact total is still being finalized, investigators estimate the value of the stolen merchandise at approximately $10,000.
Surveillance footage and itemized records allegedly show a variety of items being removed from the store without payment, including:
- Furniture and Home Goods: Tables, blanket throws, and laundry hampers.
- Accessories: Multiple purses and at least 10 pairs of shoes in a single incident.
- Clothing and Toys: Various apparel items and toys.
- Cash: At least two instances of fraudulent refunds used to take cash from the register.
In one instance on January 20, 2026, Salazar allegedly bagged two carts of merchandise for customers without scanning any items, allowing them to leave with an estimated $800 in unpaid goods.
During an interview with police, Salazar reportedly received his Miranda Warning and admitted to the thefts. He told officers he took items for himself and gave some away as Christmas gifts, noting there was “no thought process” behind why he continued to steal.
In a signed written statement provided to investigators, Salazar allegedly wrote, “I did it cause I just wanted and felt like it was easy to have and get”.
Following the interview on January 28, Salazar was officially trespassed from all Beall’s Outlet locations. While he was not immediately jailed, a report was forwarded to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office.
Officer Manke requested an arrest warrant be issued for Salazar on a preliminary charge of theft over $750. He was detained on March 5th.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This article is based on the information provided in the probable cause affidavit and does not represent a final determination of guilt or innocence.
