Lincoln Park authorities say 58-year-old Kenneth Smith of Westchester executed ten shoplifting incidents at the Target on 555 West Webster Avenue over just 12 days, stealing more than $1,200 in merchandise.
Smith, already on probation for a previous shoplifting case, is now charged with operating a continuing financial crime enterprise, a Class 1 felony applied when someone commits three or more thefts within 18 months with intent to resell. Prosecutors say Smith’s spree began August 30 and included quick two- to four-minute raids targeting bedding, hygiene products, and clothing.
Cook County Judge Ankur Srivastava ordered Smith detained for violating probation. His record is extensive, with 51 cases in Cook County since 1988 and at least 11 felony convictions, including drug dealing, burglary, repeated shoplifting, and a 2019 escape from electronic monitoring.
Authorities noted the brazen thefts were all captured on video, highlighting the repeat offender’s disregard for the law.