An Ohio county prosecutor has issued a warning to thieves, stating that they should “expect to be shot” when targeting retail stores. This comes after the indictment of Tony Thacker, the manager of VIP Smoke Shop in Delhi Township, who has been charged in connection to the fatal shooting of a teenager during an attempted robbery earlier this year. Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers filed charges on Tuesday against Thacker, who was indicted on eight counts, including felonious assault charges and tampering with evidence.
The incident occurred on October 20, when Thacker, 29, emerged from the back of the smoke shop with a firearm and allegedly shot at several suspects who had broken into the store by throwing rocks through the windows. One of the suspects, 16-year-old Travis Johnson, was fatally wounded while trying to flee the scene in a stolen vehicle. Thacker continued to shoot at the remaining suspects, including 19-year-old Amontae Carter, who was seated in the back of one of the stolen cars.
Prosecutor Melissa Powers stated, “There is simply no justification for shooting at someone as they are running away. However, I want to make perfectly clear — these retail thefts will not be tolerated. If you try to rob a store, you should expect to be shot.”
Delhi Township Police Chief Jeff Braun supported Thacker’s actions, stating that people have the right to stand their ground and protect themselves if someone breaks into their home or business. However, he noted that shooting at someone who is fleeing, especially in a moving vehicle, is harder to justify as self-defense.
Following the shooting, Thacker and his brother, Malachi Thacker, attempted to disable the store’s security system and remove shell casings. Both brothers now face charges related to tampering with evidence.
In addition to the Thacker brothers, three teenagers were arrested days after the incident. Two males, aged 15 and 17, and a 16-year-old female face murder and burglary charges, although they were reportedly not involved in Johnson’s death. The female and the 17-year-old also face stolen property charges. The three juvenile suspects were previously charged and awaiting transfer from juvenile court.
The incident has sparked controversy and debate over the use of lethal force in self-defense situations. Prosecutors are now working to bring justice to all parties involved in the incident.
