AUBURN, Mass. — Two women accused of stealing over $2,000 worth of clothing from a T.J. Maxx in Auburn were arrested just minutes later—while waiting in the drive-thru at a Wendy’s located across the street.
According to Auburn Police, Dominque Marion, 38, of Worcester, and Tynaja Williams, 24, of New Haven, Connecticut, entered the T.J. Maxx on Southbridge Street on August 13 and allegedly left with stolen merchandise. A store employee reported that the suspects fled in a black Ford Edge with Connecticut license plates.
They didn’t get far. Sgt. Wildman of the Auburn Police Department spotted the suspect vehicle in the Wendy’s drive-thru across the street. Known humorously by the department for his frequent visits to the fast-food chain, Sgt. Wildman quickly intervened.
“If Wendy’s had a frequent flyer program, he’d already have a lifetime platinum status,” the department joked in a Facebook post. “That is where the two women traded in their combo meals for a pair of handcuffs.”
Officers recovered the stolen merchandise in the backseat of the vehicle and discovered additional items believed to have been stolen from other local retailers.
Both Marion and Williams face charges of larceny over $1,200 and conspiracy. Police noted they may face further charges in other towns as the investigation continues.
“Moral of the story: Felonies do not come with a side of fries,” Auburn Police added.
Auburn is located about six miles south of Worcester and 50 miles west of Boston.
