Two Women Accused Of Stealing From Multiple Smithfield Businesses

SMITHFIELD, N.C. — A traffic stop by the State Highway Patrol led to the recovery of nearly $3,000 in allegedly stolen merchandise and the arrest of two women accused of shoplifting from several Smithfield businesses.

According to the Smithfield Police Department, officers were investigating thefts reported Tuesday at the Nike Factory Store, Crocs, and Citi Trends on Outlet Center Drive.

Investigators said the suspects allegedly stole a combined $2,919.36 in merchandise from the three stores. Police also said an attempted theft at Hibbett Sports on North Brightleaf Boulevard was unsuccessful.

Only minutes after the reported thefts, a state trooper stopped a 2005 Honda Accord the suspects were traveling in. Smithfield police responded to the traffic stop and, during a search of the vehicle, reportedly recovered the stolen merchandise.

Police arrested Melanie Lana Jordan, 35, of Hope Mills, charging her with seven counts of habitual larceny. She was also served with outstanding warrants from Guilford County for misdemeanor larceny and from Cumberland County charging possession of stolen property, felony conspiracy, habitual larceny, and possession or sale of non-tax-paid alcoholic beverages.

Candice Charlene Johnson, 45, of Fayetteville, was charged with felony aiding and abetting larceny and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia.

Smithfield police said the investigation remains ongoing and additional arrests are possible.