News Summary
Ashley Cross, a 37-year-old woman from South Memphis, was arrested after attempting to steal $137.34 worth of items from Walmart using a counterfeit barcode. Accompanied by another woman, the duo was caught by a vigilant shopper. Despite being banned from Walmart previously, Cross’s ongoing issue with shoplifting appears unresolved as she now faces multiple charges. Her court date is set for February 19.
South Memphis Woman’s Spree Lands Her in Hot Water Again
In a twist that feels like it’s straight out of a movie, a 37-year-old woman named Ashley Cross found herself on the wrong side of the law once again. This incident occurred on February 10 at a Walmart located in South Memphis. Cross has been no stranger to trouble with the law, but this time, it appears things have reached a new level of absurdity.
Caught Red-Handed
As the story goes, Ashley decided to use some rather sneaky tricks at the self-checkout machine. Instead of scanning her items the usual way, she pulled out an old watch battery barcode. With this clever little ruse, she managed to scan several items as just $1 each. But what was she trying to get away with? Well, the haul included 11 packs of ramen noodles, a stylish pair of women’s boots, a fresh pair of blue jeans, and a comfy T-shirt. All these goodies added up to a total of $137.34!
But Cross wasn’t alone in this escapade. Accompanying her in this thievery was another woman who took a backpack, two bras, a fashionable lash kit, and even an automotive accessory, with that total reaching $57.86. Talk about a duo with questionable judgment! While Ashley received some serious charges, the second woman was cited with a misdemeanor for theft of property.
Prying Eyes
It was a watchful shopper who noticed the shenanigans unfolding and reported the thefts to the storeโs security. That’s when the pink slips really hit! Ashley’s previous history made her a prime target for law enforcement, and her past catch was quite lengthy. She had already been banned nationwide from every Walmart due to her repeated shoplifting offenses.
A Not-So-Pretty Past
To really appreciate the impact of this latest arrest, itโs essential to understand Ashley’s background. Court records show a pattern that simply canโt be ignored. Just last February, she was caught swiping $502 worth of items from Nordstrom Rack. Prior to that, she was linked to a theft of $381.25 from Dicks Sporting Goods in November 2021. She racked up another $281.12 at Walmart back in December 2019. And just to cap it off, Cross even managed to steal $33 worth of goodies from Circle K in April 2024. Clearly, sheโs developed quite a knack for thievery over the last few years.
Walmart Takes Action
In response to her difficult and disruptive behavior, Walmart made it clear that they are committed to maintaining a pleasant shopping environment for all. They have the right to permanently ban individuals who compromise that environment. This does not seem to faze Cross, who, apparently undeterred by her prior bans, attempted to pull off another heist.
What’s Next for Ashley?
Now, Ashley is not just facing shoplifting charges, but she has been slapped with criminal trespass charges as well. She found herself in police custody, and her bond has been set at a whopping $7,500. The next key date on Ashleyโs calendar? She is scheduled to appear in court on February 19. Will she finally learn her lesson, or is this just another chapter in her ongoing saga with the law? Time will tell!
For residents of South Memphis and beyond, this story serves as a reminder: sometimes life can present *the strangest of plots*, only proving that not everyone seems to embrace the simple concept of playing by the rules!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Memphis Implements Safety Measures to Enhance Holiday Shopping Experience
Additional Resources
- USA Today: Memphis Walmart Arrest
- Wikipedia: Shoplifting
- WREG: Serial Shoplifter Banned from Walmart
- Google Search: Shoplifting Laws
- Commercial Appeal: Memphis Woman Banned from Walmart
- Google Scholar: Retail Theft
- WFTV: Woman Accused of Shoplifting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shoplifting
- Newsweek: Shoplifter Banned from Walmart Stores
- Google News: Memphis Shoplifting
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
