Shoppers Nabbed for “Skip Scanning” Scheme at Mobile Walmart

Mobile, AL (BuzzReport) – A routine Monday afternoon at the Walmart Super Center on E. I-65 Service Road South took a sharp turn into law enforcement action when an alert asset protection employee uncovered a sophisticated retail theft operation. The incident, which unfolded around 4:00 p.m. on September 15, 2025, saw three individuals apprehended for allegedly engaging in “skip scanning” at the self-checkout stations.

According to initial reports from the store, the asset protection employee observed multiple shoppers utilizing the self-checkout registers in a manner that suggested deliberate concealment of merchandise. The suspects were reportedly scanning only a fraction of their intended purchases, a tactic commonly known as “skip scanning,” thereby avoiding full payment for a significant portion of their goods.

The quick thinking of the store’s security personnel led to the immediate notification of an officer working an extra duty assignment within the store. Upon receiving the information, the officer swiftly intervened, intercepting the individuals before they could exit the premises.

At the point of contact, the preliminary investigation confirmed the suspicions of the asset protection employee. The individuals identified as Antonio Pettaway, 42, Kentisha Hemingway, 39, and Tykeria Pettaway, 23, were taken into custody without further incident.

All three suspects were subsequently transported to Metro Jail, where they are expected to face charges related to retail theft. Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the value of the merchandise allegedly stolen or the specific modus operandi employed beyond the initial report of skip scanning. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of their alleged activities.