A 24-year-old man from Memphis, Montavious Dewayne Fowler, has been arrested and charged with felony theft and possession of burglary tools following an incident at the TJ Maxx store in Eagan, Minnesota. The arrest took place on March 6, 2025, after Eagan Police responded to a report of suspicious activity involving a known shoplifter.
According to the Eagan Police Department, loss prevention staff had been monitoring Fowler as he allegedly concealed merchandise inside two large suitcases before attempting to leave the store without paying. The stolen items, which included clothing and other goods, were valued at $1,487.21 before taxes.
Upon arrest, authorities discovered that Fowler was also in possession of a magnet, a tool commonly used to remove security sensors from merchandise. He was taken into custody and charged with two felony counts:
Possession of Burglary or Theft Tools – This charge is punishable by up to three years in prison and/or a fine ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 under Minnesota Statute 609.59.
Theft (Over $1,000 up to $5,000) – This charge, under Minnesota Statute 609.52.2(a)(1), carries a potential penalty of up to five years in prison and/or a fine of $3,000 to $10,000.
Previous Legal Issues and Bail Conditions
Court records reveal that Fowler has a history of theft-related charges, including two separate felony theft cases and a misdemeanor theft case in Apple Valley. Additionally, he had failed to appear in court for hearings in both Hennepin County and Apple Valley, leading to multiple bench warrants.
Given his past legal issues, the prosecution requested bail to be set at $20,000 without conditions or $15,000 with conditions. However, the judge ultimately set Fowler’s bail at $10,000 without conditions and $4,000 with conditions. As of now, Fowler is no longer listed in custody, which suggests he may have posted bail, though this is still to be confirmed.
This article outlines the allegations against Fowler, his criminal history, and the legal process moving forward. While Fowler faces serious charges, it is important to note that he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Further updates will follow as the case progresses through the legal system.
