Stun Gun-Toting Shoplifters Charged In Columbia Robberies: Police

COLUMBIA, MD — Four people have been charged in a series of shoplifting incidents involving stun guns and pepper spray in Columbia. Investigators are working to determine whether they may be connected to additional cases in Maryland and neighboring states.

The crimes occurred at Nordstrom Rack in the 6100 block of Columbia Crossing Circle from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1, police said.

Authorities allege the women stole merchandise and when they were confronted by employees, the suspects used pepper spray and stun guns to get away. Nobody was injured in the incidents, police said.

The following have been charged with armed robbery, robbery, assault and theft, police said:

• Princess Precious Brown, 27, of Stanton Road SE in Washington, D.C.
• Jai Jenkins, 18, of Bayley Place NE in Washington, D.C.
• Antoinette Jones, 25, of Glassmanor Drive in Oxon Hill
• Alaysha Simmons, 18, of Gales Street NE in Washington, D.C.

All four were charged in a robbery on Nov. 29.

Brown, Jenkins and Simmons are charged with attempted robbery in a Nov. 28 case, while police said Brown, Jones and Simmons were charged in a Dec. 1 robbery as well.

Jenkins, Jones and Simmons are being held without bail at the Howard County Detention Center, police said. Brown is in custody in a neighboring jurisdiction, according to officials.

Jai Jenkins:

Antoinette Jones:

Alaysha Simmons:

RELATED: Police Say Employees Were Threatened With Pepper Spray In Columbia

File photo of handcuffs courtesy of Renee Schiavone/Patch. Booking photos courtesy of the Howard County Police Department.