Waldorf Employee Took Over $1,600 From Cracker Barrel Registers Over Two Weeks, Police Say

WALDORF, Md. — A 20-year-old Waldorf woman is facing felony charges in a Waldorf employee theft case after authorities say she took more than $1,600 from cash registers over a two-week period.

Joelle Anicia Brown, 20, of Waldorf, is charged with theft scheme between $1,500 and $25,000 in connection with the May 1, 2026, incident, according to court records.

According to charging documents, officers responded to the Cracker Barrel on Crain Highway after management reported missing money from registers over the course of approximately two weeks.

Investigators said store management reviewed internal records and surveillance, which indicated an employee had taken about $1,605 during that time.

Authorities said Brown later admitted to taking the money and provided a written statement acknowledging the theft.

According to the report, Brown told investigators she took the money for personal reasons related to financial struggles and school expenses.

Police said she also told officers she was willing to repay the money in full.

Brown was taken into custody without incident and later released on her own recognizance.

A hearing is set for June 17, 2026, in Charles District Court.

Under Maryland law, theft scheme between $1,500 and $25,000 is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine if convicted.

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