A veteran educator in Georgia is facing a felony charge after allegedly using a "stacking" method to shoplift from Walmart. Courtney Janell Shaw, 47, an assistant principal at Free Home Elementary, was arrested last Monday. Authorities claim she scanned single items while hiding multiple others underneath during self-checkout.
Police believe the shoplifting spree took place over several visits between November and December of last year. In total, Shaw allegedly walked out with 98 items worth nearly $1,000. Investigators used surveillance footage and a driver’s license database to link the veteran educator to the crimes.
"Safety and security of our students and staff is our top priority," the Cherokee County School District said in a statement. "Inappropriate conduct will never be tolerated." Shaw has been placed on administrative leave while internal and law enforcement investigations continue.
The 20-year education veteran was caught after a Walmart employee reported suspicious activity on January 12. Surveillance footage reportedly showed two vehicles registered to Shaw at the scene of the thefts. A Ford F-150 and a Jeep Grand Cherokee were later found at her residence.
Shaw was booked into the Cherokee County jail on one felony count of shoplifting. She was released later that day after posting a $4,875 bond. Records show she joined Free Home Elementary as an assistant principal just last year.
Before her current role, Shaw held leadership positions at two other elementary schools. Her long career and status as a mother have made the allegations particularly shocking to the local community. The district maintains that she will remain on leave until the legal outcome is determined.