LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A man caught on cellphone video shoplifting at a Walgreens in Louisville has been arrested, along with four other individuals, following a thorough investigation by the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD).
The video, filmed by local resident Sean Peoples, shows Tyler Haney casually bagging various items from the Walgreens on Fegenbush Avenue before walking out to a getaway car with multiple people inside. The footage quickly went viral, sparking widespread public attention and raising questions about how Louisville Metro Police responded to the crime.
LMPD officials confirmed that they were not called to the scene while Haney was actively stealing. Had they been notified in real-time, the department stated, they would have responded immediately. However, the police were contacted after Haney and the other suspects had already fled the store.
The department’s investigation, which began after the suspects left the scene, led detectives on a complex trail. On Wednesday, LMPD arrested five individuals in connection with the theft: Haney, William Helphenstine, Kelli Hendricks, Chelsea Wyland, and Keith Reed. Authorities also towed three vehicles involved in the getaway.
In response to the swift action by law enforcement, Sean Peoples expressed appreciation. “For LMPD to put something out saying ‘Hey, we heard you, we saw it, and we’re investigating,’ that made me feel even better,” he said. “This is a good look for the city, you’ve got to admit. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
Haney, who is no stranger to criminal activity, has a long history of theft. According to LMPD, Haney is known to “steal anything that isn’t bolted to the ground.” The suspect is believed to have targeted several other businesses across Jefferson County, including Lowe’s, Tool World, and multiple Walgreens locations.
Court documents reveal a troubling pattern of thefts leading up to the Walgreens incident. On April 26, Haney and two co-defendants allegedly stole over $1,200 worth of tools from Lowe’s. Haney later admitted to stealing the items and selling them for profit. Earlier that same day, Haney was involved in thefts at two AutoZone locations, taking merchandise worth approximately $900.
The Walgreens theft, which occurred on April 23, was similarly brazen. Haney was caught on surveillance video placing items into a duffle bag, making no attempt to pay for the merchandise, which was valued at nearly $660. Peoples, who filmed the incident, followed Haney and captured footage of the suspect’s vehicle and license plate, ultimately helping authorities identify the criminals involved.
In total, Haney is accused of stealing nearly $1,600 worth of merchandise from various stores across Louisville. He is also linked to an earlier theft at a Walgreens on South 3rd Street, where he was seen on surveillance video stealing around $300 worth of products.
The investigation revealed that Haney and his co-defendants were part of an organized criminal effort, with thefts spanning multiple locations in Jefferson County. All five individuals face multiple charges, including theft of $1,000 or more, retail theft, engaging in organized crime, and hindering prosecution.
Haney, who faces several active theft cases, appeared in court Thursday morning and pleaded not guilty to the charges. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 9 at 9 a.m.
As the investigation continues, LMPD remains committed to tackling organized retail crime and ensuring that those involved are held accountable. The department’s quick response and the public’s involvement in the case serve as a reminder of the power of community engagement in solving crimes.
