- May 11, 2025
On May 7, 2025, Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested Mareena Aviles, 33, and Kaliya Thomas, 26, both of Palatka, after the two were caught stealing merchandise from TJ Maxx in Palm Coast.
The arrest came shortly after a TJ Maxx employee witnessed Aviles and Thomas place multiple clothing items into a black bag and then exit the store separately without paying. After confronting Thomas outside the store and retrieving the stolen merchandise, the TJ Maxx employee immediately contacted law enforcement, providing descriptions of both suspects and the suspect vehicle.
FCSO deputies quickly located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop less than 2 miles from the store. Inside the vehicle, deputies located a large amount of clothing with TJ Maxx tags still attached, an antishoplifting device used to remove security tags, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. The clothing is believed to have been stolen from stores in Flagler, Alachua and Marion counties.
Aviles has a past history of theft in Alachua and Putnam counties. Aviles was arrested for Petit theft with 2 or more prior convictions, possession of marijuana 20 grams or less, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of anti-shoplifting device, and driving while license suspended habitual offender. She was transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where she is being held on a $46,000 bond.
Deputies also arrested Thomas for petit theft with prior convictions and possession of an anti-shoplifting device. She was transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where she is being held on a $20,000 bond.
“This thieving duo made the wrong turn and came to Flagler County to try and rip off a local business,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “The quick response of our deputies ensured these two thieves were stopped in their tracks! Their ‘free’ shoplifting spree won them a stack of charges and a free trip and stay at the Green Roof Inn.”
