Six individuals have been charged with conspiring to transport stolen property across state lines, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney Alina Habba. The charges stem from a series of burglaries targeting consignment shops in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware.
The accused include Marco Honesty, 28; Richard Francis, 35; Dominique Hayes, 29; Deandre Dudley, 32; Ilon Coles-Melson, 21; and Marcus Gallmon, 21. All are residents of Washington D.C. and Maryland. They face one count each of conspiracy to sell and receive stolen property that crossed state lines.
Court appearances for the defendants took place in Newark federal court before various U.S. Magistrate Judges. Marco Honesty was detained after appearing on June 13, 2025. Dominique Hayes and Ilon Coles-Melson were also detained following their appearances on May 22 and April 11 respectively. Meanwhile, Marcus Gallmon was released on a $100,000 unsecured bond after his appearance on February 26. Similarly, Deandre Dudley and Richard Francis were released on $100,000 unsecured bonds following their court dates on February 20 and February 5.
Documents filed in the case indicate that the group is suspected of conducting at least 18 burglaries between March and November of 2024. These incidents involved breaking into consignment shops using sledgehammers during nighttime hours to steal designer handbags and other items which were then transported across state lines.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment along with a fine up to $250,000 or twice the amount involved in the offense.
U.S. Attorney Habba acknowledged the role of Homeland Security Investigations under Special Agent Ricky J. Patel in leading the investigation resulting in these charges. She also expressed gratitude towards numerous local police departments for their assistance.
Individuals who suspect they may be victims or possess information regarding this theft group are encouraged to contact authorities via a hotline or local field office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly M. Lyons is representing the government in this case.
It is important to note that all charges are accusations at this stage; the defendants remain presumed innocent until proven guilty.
