MCTX Sheriff Arrests Scam Artist/Thief at The Woodlands Mall

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- On August 22, 2024, Deputies from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, assigned to The Woodlands Patrol Division, responded to a report of a suspicious person at The Woodlands Mall. Deputies were advised that a suspect was engaged in a "Quick Change" scam, which is a sleight-of-hand trick designed to deceive cashiers into accepting less money than the total purchase amount.

Upon locating the suspect within the mall, Deputies pursued him as he fled from the scene. After a brief foot chase, Deputies successfully apprehended him.

The investigation led to a search of his vehicle, which uncovered merchandise and over $18,000 in cash, all linked to various thefts across multiple stores.

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Detectives responded to aid in the investigation. The suspect was identified as 26-year-old, Ion Szep. Further investigation found Szep had multiple felony warrants throughout the United States. Szep was arrested for theft and the outstanding felony warrants and is currently being held at the Montgomery County Jail.

"This arrest is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our Deputies and Detectives," said Sheriff Henderson. "Their swift response and thorough investigation led to the apprehension of a suspect with a history of criminal activity across the country."