Sebastian mother and daughter charged with retail theft

Two people from Sebastian were arrested at Walmart in Vero Beach for retail theft. They were transported to the Indian River County Jail for processing.

A Walmart loss prevention agent observed Elizabeth Shields, 45, and Emma Shields, 19, concealing small toys, socks, an ice pack, and other merchandise in their clothing.

Be prepared for hurricane season

Don't lose power during the next storm. A reliable generator keeps your lights, fridge, AC, and medical equipment running when the grid goes down. Essential for Florida homeowners who want peace of mind during hurricane season. Shop hurricane-ready generators (Amazon Associate disclosure: Sebastian Daily earns from qualifying purchases.)

In addition, the agent also observed the two switching price tags to purchase items at a lower cost before scanning them at the self-checkout.

Coincidentally, a deputy with the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office was also at Walmart and observed the theft. The deputy stopped the pair after they walked through the exit carrying the merchandise hidden in their clothing.

The two paid for eight items totaling $87.00 and walked out with 11 unpaid items totaling $137.60.

The daughter told law enforcement her mother asked her to get tape for switching price tags. In addition, the daughter was concealing merchandise in her hoodie pocket and along her waistband.

They were both charged with Retail Theft and Scheme to Defraud.

Elizabeth Shields has a bond set at $12,000, and her daughter, Emma Shields, has a bond of $5,550.