March 3, 2026
Suffolk police arrested a woman Monday for a theft rampage targeting businesses and cars in Shirley and Mastic. The spree has residents and shop owners on high alert for more crime prevention tips.
A woman faces multiple charges after Suffolk County police arrested her for an alleged theft spree hitting businesses and cars across Shirley and Mastic. The bust came late Sunday, capping a wave of break-ins that rattled store owners along key strips like Montauk Highway in Shirley and Neighborhood Road in Mastic.
News 12 Long Island reports the suspect targeted several spots over the weekend, swiping cash, goods, and even hot-wiring cars from parking lots. Shirley businesses near the firehouse on Old Country Road and Mastic shops by the LIRR station felt the pinch, with owners locking up tighter. Police say she struck at least five locations, grabbing thousands in merchandise and vehicles before cops tracked her down near William Floyd Parkway.
Suffolk detectives used surveillance video from a Shirley gas station and Mastic pharmacy to ID the woman. She was nabbed driving a stolen sedan from one of the hits, with stolen items still inside. Charges include grand larceny, criminal possession of stolen property, and unauthorized use of a vehicle.
This arrest follows other recent Suffolk chases, like the Mastic Beach U-Haul pursuit and Middle Island marijuana bust, per News 12. Locals in these working-class hamlets, home to families and small shops, are fed up. "We've had enough," said a Shirley store clerk who asked not to be named. Police urge locking cars and installing cameras. For a broader look at theft trends across the region, see our Suffolk County weekly crime roundup.
Bay Shore resident Harvin Parra's recent robbery arraignment shows Suffolk DA Raymond Tierney cracking down on crime rings. The woman is held pending arraignment at First District Court in Central Islip. Stay vigilant—report tips to local crime activity in nearby Patchogue or contact Suffolk Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS.
