Man accused of stealing $20K worth of groceries from BJ’s
by: Jusolyn Flower
JOHNSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — A Providence man is facing felony charges for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars’ worth of groceries from BJ’s Wholesale Club in Johnston.
Johnston police responded to the Stone Hill Drive store on Saturday, Aug. 31, after staff reported a suspect had walked out with a shopping cart full of groceries without paying.
Huhendi Barona-De Los Santos, 51, was arrested in the parking lot as he was allegedly unloading over $3,000 worth of produce, coffee items, dog food and self-care products into an SUV.
The stolen items were then returned to the store by police.
Police said surveillance footage revealed that Barona-De Los Santos had committed similar thefts on Aug. 20, 25, and 28, with a total value of $17,180.67. According to police, most of the stolen items were coffee, energy drinks and Mazola corn oil.
BJ’s staff told police they knew Barona-De Los Santos as a worker for a food delivery service, but his employment had not been verified.
Barona-De Los Santos was charged with four counts of felony larceny. After his arraignment, he was released on $20,000 personal recognizance. He’s scheduled to return to court on Nov. 18.
Police also noted that additional charges may be filed if another suspect is identified.