Elusive Haggen Thief Arrested by Auburn Police

The Auburn police investigation into a December 2019 burglary at the Lake Tapps Haggen grocery store revealed a perplexing series of events involving a thief who hid in the store's rafters. Initially reported on December 26, the burglary involved the theft of $6,500 worth of cigarettes, high-end liquor, and gourmet cheeses. Subsequent visits by police to the store uncovered a suspect who was seen peering out from access points and hiding in crawl spaces. After multiple failed attempts to locate the individual, police arrested Weston Wiley, 40, on February 4, 2020, following tips from the public. Evidence found at his home included clothing matching that seen in surveillance footage, stolen cigarettes, and a block of cheese with a Haggen price tag.

The total estimated loss from the burglary and damage to the store was around $14,000. The unusual tactics employed by the suspect, including navigating through the store's rafters, have raised questions about security and store access points. This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in addressing retail crime and the importance of community involvement in solving such mysteries.