CAPE CORAL, FL — On August 27, 2025, at approximately 8:42 a.m., officers with the Cape Coral Police Department responded to a reported theft at the Walmart Supercenter located at 1619 Del Prado Boulevard South.
Upon arrival, officers met with Walmart’s Loss Prevention Investigator, who reported observing a male suspect, described as wearing teal clothing and a blue hat, attempt to push a cart full of unpaid merchandise past all points of sale. When confronted, the suspect abandoned the cart and fled southbound on foot. He was not located at the time.
The stolen merchandise, which was fully recovered, totaled $1,140.64 before tax. Notable items included a $419 sewing machine and a Cricut Maker 3 valued at $349.00. Surveillance footage showed the suspect, described as heavily tattooed and wearing a teal hat, selecting the merchandise and attempting to leave the store.
A follow-up investigation by the CCPD Property Crimes Unit revealed that the same suspect had been involved in a prior theft at a Walmart in Estero. Detectives noted distinctive tattoos, including:
- “Ridin’ Dirty” on the neck
- “Momma” on the hand
- “Rachel” in red letters beneath the lower lip
Review of surveillance video and facial recognition software confirmed the suspect’s identity as John Joseph Adams (DOB 09/15/1983). A photo lineup was conducted, and Adams was positively identified.
Further investigation linked Adams to additional thefts at Target (1890 NE Pine Island Road), where he reportedly stole $809.97 worth of merchandise, including Ninja cookware and a KitchenAid mixer.
On September 6, 2025, Adams was arrested by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office in connection with another theft in Estero.
As a result of the investigation, Adams, already in custody at the Lee County Jail, has been formally charged with the following:
- 2 counts of Grand Theft in violation of Florida State Statute 812.014(2)(c)1, a third-degree felony
