CALIFORNIA, Md. — In a series of alleged thefts spanning several months, a 51-year-old Mechanicsville man is facing multiple criminal charges after being accused of stealing more than $10,000 in merchandise from a local Lowe’s store.
Robert Henry Short, 51, is charged with 17 counts of theft ranging from $100 to under $1,500, two counts of theft under $100, and two counts of theft scheme between $1,500 and $25,000, stemming from incidents that reportedly occurred between June and October 2025.
Authorities say Short allegedly entered the Lowe’s store on 20 separate occasions during this period and allegedly took items each time. Surveillance footage and photographs obtained by investigators reportedly show Short using two different vehicles, both registered to him, to transport the stolen merchandise. Officials said Short’s Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration photograph matched the suspect captured on video, leading to his identification.
The total loss from the alleged thefts has been reported at $10,480.02. Short was issued a summons for the charges on March 6, 2026. A preliminary inquiry is scheduled for April 17, 2026, as the case proceeds through the court system.
If convicted on all counts, Short could face significant penalties under Maryland law, including potential prison time and fines. Theft of $1,500 to under $25,000 is classified as a felony with a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison per count.
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