Five Suspects Charged in $4,500 Kohl’s Theft That Targeted Forest Hill Store in Harford County
HARFORD COUNTY, MD — Five people have been arrested and charged after authorities say they stole more than $4,500 worth of merchandise from a Kohl’s department store in Forest Hill across three separate incidents this fall. The Harford County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the thefts took place between October 30 and November 10, 2025, and involved an organized scheme to conceal and remove merchandise using a suitcase.
Suspects Identified in Ongoing Investigation
According to police, the suspects have been identified as Hayward T. Henderson Jr., 42; Susan Frazier, 45; Eric C. Briggs Sr., 49; Christopher C. Ewing, 34; and Phillip V. Frazier Jr., 45. Investigators said the group allegedly loaded stolen items into a suitcase, placed it near the front doors, and then exited the store without paying.
The stolen goods included Nike sneakers, jewelry, clothing, and other high-value merchandise, which detectives say were likely intended for resale.
Search Warrant Leads to Firearm Recovery
Police executed a search warrant on December 4 at a residence connected to Phillip V. Frazier Jr., where investigators recovered some of the stolen merchandise and an unserialized handgun belonging to Frazier. The discovery led to additional firearm-related charges being added to the case.
“Retail theft doesn’t only victimize the store — it victimizes our community,” said Sheriff Jeffrey R. Gahler. “These organized theft operations drive up prices and endanger the safety of both shoppers and employees. Retail theft is not tolerated in Harford County.”
Pattern of Thefts and Coordination
Investigators said the suspects are believed to have worked together in a coordinated effort, striking the same Kohl’s location multiple times over a two-week span. Store surveillance footage and witness statements helped detectives connect the thefts, which followed a consistent pattern in each incident.
The stolen merchandise was often hidden inside a large suitcase or duffel bag to avoid detection. Once filled, the items were carried near the front of the store and discreetly moved outside before any employee could intervene.
Charges Filed
The suspects now face several felony and misdemeanor charges, including:
- Organized retail theft
- Multiple counts of theft
- Possession of an unserialized handgun
The Harford County Sheriff’s Office is working alongside loss prevention teams and the State’s Attorney’s Office to ensure all five suspects are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
“Our investigators are committed to dismantling organized theft groups and holding repeat offenders accountable,” Sheriff Gahler added. “We’ll continue working with retailers to protect local businesses and customers.”
Authorities have not released details on whether all of the stolen items have been recovered.
Stay updated on developing crime stories across Maryland and the East Coast at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
