GAINESVILLE, Ga. (WITN) — A man with a notable name and an extensive criminal record has been arrested for stealing more than $20,000 worth of merchandise from Walmart stores across North Georgia. Forty-year-old Speedy Gonzalez is facing multiple felony shoplifting charges in connection with the thefts.
Gonzalez was apprehended at a Gainesville Walmart in March after investigators identified him from surveillance footage. He’s linked to over 20 thefts across Hall, Barrow, Gwinnett, Habersham, White, and Lumpkin counties. Authorities say Gonzalez used a clever technique to steal high-priced items like nicotine products, diabetic test strips, and gum. He would hide these items inside larger containers, such as trash cans or mailboxes, and pay only for the larger item at checkout. Gonzalez would then walk out of the store with the concealed goods.
After his arrest, police found more stolen merchandise in his vehicle. Investigators are continuing to connect him to similar thefts at other Walmart locations across the region. Gonzalez has a criminal history, including a 2020 arrest in Gwinnett County for stealing checks and attempting to purchase $3,000 worth of items with them.
Currently held in Barrow County, Gonzalez faces additional charges as authorities across North Georgia continue their investigation.
