(Douglas County) On December 19, 2023, shortly after 11 a.m., Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to reported shoplifting in progress at the Highlands Ranch Target store located on Sgt. John Stiles Drive.
Patrol and K9 Deputies surrounded the exits, and Detectives were observing the suspect on Target’s surveillance cameras.
The suspect exited the store without paying and was confronted by patrol deputies. The suspect pushed the cart into the parking lot turned around and ran back into the store. The suspect was stopped by running into the closing automatic door and was immediately apprehended.
The suspect was arrested for a felony warrant out of Westminster and theft of $3,000.00 worth of merchandise. Target advised that they believe this suspect is responsible for shoplifting over $25,000.00 in the Denver Metro area.
The suspect was identified as 30-year-old Aaron Wessels-Penn from Pueblo, CO.
Sheriff Darren Weekly stated, “I want to dispel any false narrative that Douglas County Sheriff’s Office won’t respond to shoplifter calls, or that it’s not worth the effort. This arrest underscores our commitment in Douglas County to protect our residents and businesses. We will always respond when called, and I am extremely proud of the quick action, dedication, and hard work of our deputies and detectives.”
DCSO encourages businesses to report crimes immediately. We appreciate our partnership with Target.
