**Serial Retail Theft Suspect Arrested After Alleged $37,000 Lego Shoplifting Spree**
Watauga police announced Sunday the arrest of 28-year-old Winston Love, who is accused of stealing merchandise from 23 Target stores across 14 cities in the Dallas area over the past two months. Authorities say the thefts—which total more than $37,000—primarily involved high-value Lego products.
Love was found to have eight outstanding warrants and allegedly in possession of illegal narcotics at the time of his arrest. Police suspect he is part of a larger organized retail theft ring operating in Texas and Oklahoma, with a specific focus on reselling Lego merchandise online for near-retail value.
“Mr. Love is also believed to be part of an organized retail theft ring operating in Texas and Oklahoma, many involving Lego merchandise,” the Watauga Police Department said in a statement. Affected cities include Dallas, Watauga, Irving, Plano, Fort Worth, Flower Mound, Lewisville, Frisco, Grapevine, Euless, Arlington, Mansfield, Temple, and Harker Heights.
Authorities described Love’s method as “incredibly brazen.” Watauga Police Chief Jim Lewis said, “He truly goes shopping through the store, determines what merchandise he wants, and specifically targets Lego products. He either loads them in a cart or just under his arms and literally walks right out the door, almost in complete defiance of anyone who might try to stop him.” Chief Lewis noted that stolen Lego products are easy to resell online, which increases the likelihood of such thefts.
Love was apprehended on Friday after allegedly stealing $1,200 worth of merchandise from a Target store in Watauga. According to officials, he fled before officers arrived, but was located shortly after. Following a brief standoff, Love surrendered peacefully and was taken into custody without incident.
The following day, Watauga police executed a search warrant at his residence, recovering additional stolen property, illegal narcotics, a vehicle, and approximately $5,000 in cash.
Love faces multiple felony warrants stemming from theft-related offenses in Tarrant, Dallas, and Rockwall counties. He was charged with state jail felony theft and transported to the North Richland Hills Detention Center.
“This case highlights the excellent work and collaboration between our officers and regional law enforcement partners,” said Chief Lewis. “Their swift actions and thorough investigation not only led to the arrest of a serial offender but also to the recovery of stolen property. Retail thefts impact everyone in our community, and the Watauga Police Department remains committed to protecting both people and property to ensure our city stays a safe place to live, work, and play.”
Target has not yet responded to requests for comment.
https://nypost.com/2025/11/05/us-news/suspect-steals-from-nearly-two-dozen-target-stores-supposedly-just-for-legos/