16 People Charged in Massive Charity Clothing Theft Ring That Stole Over Half a Million Pounds of Donations
SUFFOLK COUNTY, New York — What began as an effort to help those in need turned into a year-long criminal operation, as 16 people have been arrested and charged in connection with an elaborate scheme to steal clothing donations from charity bins across Long Island.
Half a Million Pounds of Clothing Stolen
According to Suffolk County prosecutors, the group systematically targeted donation bins belonging to St. Vincent de Paul, removing an estimated half-million pounds of clothing valued at more than $200,000.
Authorities say the operation ran for months, with thieves shoving their bodies into donation bins, pulling out bags of clothes meant for low-income families, and selling them to export companies for profit.
“You thought you’d seen everything,” said Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine. “Could you believe people would steal from a clothing bin — and figure out a way to make money off it?”
‘Disgraceful’ Theft Repeated Hundreds of Times
The thefts were described by prosecutors as “disgraceful,” occurring hundreds of times over the past year, often overnight or even during church services.
District Attorney Ray Tierney said the crew worked like a commercial operation — running scheduled collection routes, filling vans with donations, and selling the clothing in bulk to resellers.
“These runners worked hundreds of hours while everyone else was sleeping,” Tierney said. “You are literally taking food, clothing, and shelter out of the hands of the needy — and we will not stand for it.”
Investigation Uncovers Organized Network
After noticing a dramatic drop in donations, St. Vincent de Paul executives began tracking the clothing bags and alerted law enforcement. The investigation revealed a coordinated theft ring involving both adults and juveniles.
Tom Abbate, CEO of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, said the discovery left staff stunned.
“We were shaking our heads,” Abbate said. “These donations are the main source of revenue that supports our work for the poor.”
Following the arrests, the charity reported that donations have risen by 50%, as the community rallies to restore trust and replenish lost resources.
Charges and Next Steps
The defendants — all of whom pleaded not guilty — face a range of charges, including grand larceny, burglary, and possession of stolen property.
Officials estimate that the charity lost nearly $750,000 in total revenue, factoring in both the stolen clothing and resale value.
To prevent future thefts, St. Vincent de Paul is now reinforcing its donation bins and installing additional surveillance at high-risk drop-off locations across Suffolk County.
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