Lincoln Police have arrested the fourth and final suspect in a string of theft and forgery cases that stretched across several central Lincoln businesses Tuesday night. LPD Public Information Manager Erika Thomas says a 17-year-old Omaha boy was driven to Lincoln and turned over to police.
Investigators also announced a new case connected to the group. Police say the same four teenagers entered the Hy-Vee at 50th and O streets around 8:10 p.m. Tuesday and allegedly used counterfeit currency to exchange for approximately $1,100 in legitimate cash. All four suspects are now being cited or referred for first-degree forgery in connection with that incident.
The crime spree began around 8:30 p.m. when officers responded to Target at 48th and R. Loss prevention employees reported four teenagers stealing iPads from a secured display case and hiding them in backpacks. When officers arrived, the suspects ran from the store, leaving the backpacks behind.
Three suspects were arrested that evening, while a fourth initially escaped. Officers recovered 17 stolen iPads valued at more than $14,000. The investigation also determined the group attempted to pass counterfeit money at the nearby Super Saver, where one suspect successfully exchanged fake $50 bills for about $700 in legitimate cash.
Detectives also linked the suspects to the theft of more than $3,200 worth of Nike clothing from Dick’s Sporting Goods earlier that evening. 18-year-old Siidi Adan of Omaha was arrested and booked into the Lancaster County Jail on charges including felony shoplifting, first-degree forgery, obstructing a peace officer and additional theft offenses.
Two juveniles, ages 16 and 17, were referred to the Youth Services Center on similar allegations. The investigation remains ongoing.