Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) are conducting an investigation into a significant theft at Amazon’s distribution center in Berks County. The investigation centers around the theft of merchandise valued at over $300,000. The incident took place at the Amazon Distribution Center on Mountain Road in Upper Bern Township.
Details of the Theft Investigation
The PSP was alerted to the theft in December 2024. A loss prevention officer at the center reported a series of thefts that had been occurring. Due to the substantial value of the stolen merchandise, the case was subsequently handed over to PSP investigators.
Surveillance Evidence
Investigators utilized surveillance footage to identify an order picker stealing high-value items from the warehouse. This area did not fall under the suspect’s legitimate work responsibilities, raising suspicions.
Value of Stolen Items
By April 2025, it was determined that the total value of the merchandise stolen was $372,934.11. The stolen items included:
- Apple Watches
- AirPods
- Fire TV Sticks
- Hard drives
Despite initial identification of a suspect through their work badge, subsequent hearings revealed discrepancies.
Identity of the True Suspect
During a preliminary hearing, it was established that the individual initially charged was not the person captured in the surveillance footage. That individual did not even work at the distribution center.
Connection to Warlyn Estevez
Amazon’s loss prevention officer identified 23-year-old Warlyn Estevez from Reading as the true suspect in the case. Estevez had formerly been employed at Amazon’s Bethel warehouse but was dismissed in 2024 due to theft. Authorities suspect that he returned to the Upper Bern site using the identity of another individual.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Warlyn Estevez faces multiple counts of theft with a preliminary hearing set for February 18, 2026. He is currently released on $50,000 unsecured bail, according to online court records.
This case highlights the serious issue of workplace theft and the complexities involved in investigating such crimes at large distribution centers like Amazon.
