Six individuals have been charged following an investigation by ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Newark, accused of conspiring to transport stolen property from burglarized consignment shops across several states. The charges were filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.
The defendants, Marco Honesty, 28; Richard Francis, 35; Dominique Hayes, 29; Deandre Dudley, 32; Ilon Coles-Melson, 21; and Marcus Gallmon, 21—residents of Washington D.C. and Maryland—face one count each of conspiracy to sell and receive stolen property that crossed state lines.
Ricky J. Patel, ICE HSI Newark Special Agent in Charge, stated: "Our law enforcement partnerships across the East Coast in this investigation led to the successful apprehension of six suspects and dismantled an interstate burglary ring behind a string of consignment store thefts across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania Maryland and Delaware.” He added that those involved will face consequences for their actions involving millions of dollars in stolen merchandise.
The investigation revealed that these individuals are part of a commercial burglary ring responsible for at least 18 burglaries between March and November 2024 in multiple states including New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. The suspects allegedly broke into stores at night using sledgehammers and other tools to steal designer handbags and other items before transporting them across state lines.
HSI Newark led the operation with support from HSI offices in Baltimore, Malta, Washington D.C., Wilmington as well as various local law enforcement agencies across five states.
In particular support was provided by numerous police departments within New Jersey such as the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office and Morris County Prosecutor’s Office among others. Assistance also came from partners in New York like Guilderland Police Department; Pennsylvania's Philadelphia Police Department; Delaware State Police; and Maryland's Prince George’s County Police Department.
Court appearances for the defendants varied with some detained after appearing while others were released on bond. The charge they face carries a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment or a fine up to $250,000 or twice the monetary amount involved in their offense if greater.
Individuals who suspect they may be victims or possess information regarding this group are encouraged to contact authorities via 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or reach out locally.
It is important to note that these charges are accusations at this stage with all defendants presumed innocent until proven guilty.
