2 New Yorkers arrested on theft-related charges

CLINTON — Two individuals were arrested Sunday after police allegedly found stolen merchandise and items used to bypass anti-theft tags in their possession, according to a press release.

Michael Alston, 36, and Katrina Dise, 27, both of New York, were charged with third-degree larceny, first-degree forgery, organized retail theft, possession of a shoplifting device, conspiracy to commit organized retail theft, and conspiracy to commit thirddegree larceny, the release said.

Alston also was charged with making an illegal turn, operating an unregistered motor vehicle and misuse of registration plates, while Dise also was charged with possession of less than half an ounce of marijuana, the release stated.

Police conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 81 after observing the driver make an unsafe left-hand turn, they said. Upon pulling over the vehicle, officers discovered the North Carolina registration was expired and didn’t belong to the vehicle.

Officers smelled marijuana coming from inside the vehicle, and, upon searching it, allegedly found a bag lined with foil used to defeat anti-theft tags on merchandise, more than $600 in counterfeit bills, and more than $4,000 in stolen merchandise from stores at Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets and the Westfield Trumbull mall, the release said.

Police also found marijuana in Dise’s possession and an item commonly used to remove anti-theft devices from merchandise in her purse, the report said.

Alston and Dise were held in lieu of $25,000 bail and were scheduled to appear in court Monday.

Alston

Dise