Watauga police announced on Sunday that Winston Love, 28, is suspected of stealing from 23 Target stores across 14 cities, primarily within the Dallas region, in the past two months, with losses exceeding $37,000.
Love was found in possession of eight outstanding warrants and illegal substances. He is also believed to be part of a large theft ring that spans Texas and Oklahoma, primarily targeting Lego merchandise, according to officials.
The Watauga Police Department stated, “Mr. Love is believed to be part of an organized retail theft operation active in Texas and Oklahoma, focusing on Lego products.” The affected locations include Dallas, Watauga, Irving, Plano, Fort Worth, Flower Mound, Lewisville, Frisco, Grapevine, Euless, Arlington, Mansfield, Temple, and Harker Heights.
Authorities described Love’s actions as “incredibly brazen,” with reports indicating he left the stores seemingly unconcerned, only carrying Lego items.
“It’s very bold behavior. Watching the surveillance footage, he’s seen browsing the store, picking out what he wants, and specifically targeting Lego items. He either loads them into a cart or simply holds them, walking right out the door as if he owns the place,” Watauga Police Chief Jim Lewis remarked.
“These products are easy to resell online at near-retail prices, so the risk seems worth it,” Lewis noted.
Love was apprehended last Friday after a theft was reported at a Target store, where he allegedly stole $1,200 worth of merchandise and fled before officers arrived.
Police managed to locate him soon after the theft, convincing him to surrender peacefully following a brief standoff. He was taken into custody without any issues.
The following day, police executed a search warrant at his residence, recovering additional stolen items, illegal drugs, a vehicle, and around $5,000 in cash.
Authorities discovered multiple outstanding theft-related felony warrants for Love from various jurisdictions, including Tarrant, Dallas, and Rockwall counties.
He faces a felony charge of theft and has been moved to the North Richland Hills Detention Center.
Chief Lewis emphasized the teamwork between local law enforcement, stating, “This incident demonstrates our officers’ quick action and thorough investigations—leading to the arrest of a serial offender and recovery of stolen property. Retail theft affects everyone in the community, and we are dedicated to protecting our city to make it a safe place to live, work, and enjoy.”
Target has yet to respond to requests for comments regarding this incident.
