PENNSYLVANIA — Three people are facing charges in connection with an alleged multi-county retail theft scheme targeting Lowe’s stores across western Pennsylvania, according to police.
Investigators allege the suspects used stolen credit card information to make purchases at multiple stores and later picked up the merchandise in person. The items — including paint sprayers, electrical wire and generators — are commonly resold, police said.
According to a report from TribLive, the investigation began in mid-2025 after authorities identified 11 transactions totaling about $23,000 at Lowe’s locations in Allegheny, Beaver, Indiana, Lancaster and Westmoreland counties. Stores in Hempfield, Frazer and Monroeville were among those affected.
Police said Willy Bueno, 41, Angela Estepan-Cuevas, 32, and Desiree Tejeda, 34, all of Columbus, Ohio, were connected to the scheme. Each was listed as an authorized pickup person for the purchased items.
Court documents indicate a review of Bueno’s cellphone revealed information related to picking up orders at Lowe’s stores and transferring money to the Dominican Republic, according to the Trib report.
Estepan-Cuevas was arraigned Thursday and denied bail. She is being held at the Westmoreland County Prison. Arrest warrants have been issued for Bueno and Tejeda.
All three suspects are charged with corrupt organizations, conspiracy, receiving stolen property and related offenses.
