The Aberdeen Police Department recently announced the arrest of 35-year-old William Branch, a resident of Rockingham, following an investigation into a theft at Walmart. The incident occurred on December 9, 2021, when Aberdeen officers were called to the store in response to reports of larceny and intentional under-ringing of items.
Upon arriving, officers met with Walmart asset protection staff, who alleged that Branch used the self-checkout and intentionally mis-scanned several items. Aberdeen investigators reviewed witness statements and security footage, confirming the alleged misconduct. A warrant for Branch’s arrest was issued on January 24, 2022, on charges of felony obtaining property by false pretenses and misdemeanor larceny.
Efforts to locate Branch initially were unsuccessful in Moore County. However, on November 3, 2024, he was apprehended in Richmond County and presented before a magistrate. He is currently held on a $1,500 secured bond. As with all cases, Branch is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
This incident underscores the vigilance of asset protection officers and the importance of thorough investigations in retail theft cases.