Tried Using Kid To Shoplift, Say Lacey Police

A 28-year-old Barnegat woman is charged with shoplifting in Lacey, and for enlisting a youngster in the act.

Township police arrested Jessica Bozarth Tuesday afternoon at the Wal-Mart in Lanoka Harbor, after security guards stopped her on suspicion of clipping merchandise worth $350.20.

According to the police report, Bozarth shopped with a pair of boys, aged six and eight. In a cart were two tower fans, a dehumidifier, and a Barbie Party Camper Playset. Police say she then directed one of the boys to push the cart and its contents through an exit door.

Police charged Bozarth with one count of f0urth-degree shoplifting and a third-degree count of employing a juvenile in the commission of a criminal offense. Third-degree crimes carry sentences of five to 10 years on conviction, plus fines.

Bozarth was placed in the Ocean County Jail in Toms River. The boys were turned over to a family member.