FEASTERVILLE, PA — What began as heightened surveillance tied to a surge in retail thefts ended with an arrest Thursday afternoon at a busy Bucks County shopping center, according to Lower Southampton Township Police.
Authorities said a plainclothes detective was monitoring the Bucks Crossing Shopping Center along East Street Road at approximately 1:00 p.m. on December 18 after merchants reported an increase in theft-related activity in the area. During that operation, ACME Loss Prevention alerted police to a suspected retail theft involving more than $1,146 in merchandise, including over-the-counter medications.
Police identified the suspect as Joseph Holod, 35, of Norristown. Officers conducted a stop and said Holod was positively identified as the individual allegedly involved in the theft.
According to police, a search conducted incident to the arrest resulted in the discovery of assorted glass pipes and baggies containing residue believed to be from a controlled substance. The items were seized as part of the investigation.
The incident occurred at the Bucks Crossing Shopping Center on East Street Road in Feasterville. Police did not immediately release additional details regarding the scope of the investigation or whether further charges may be filed.
Authorities emphasized that the allegations outlined are part of an ongoing criminal matter. Any suspect, arrestee, or defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Lower Southampton Township Police Department said it continues to work with local businesses to address retail theft concerns and encouraged merchants to promptly report suspicious activity as investigations continue.
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