Fargo Liquor Stores Targeted by $2,700 Tequila Theft Spree

A series of thefts at Fargo liquor stores has led to heightened security measures after a man stole nearly $2,700 worth of tequila. The incidents occurred across several months at Happy Harry’s locations, prompting the company’s management to take action to prevent further losses.

Dustin Mitzel, CEO of Happy Harry’s, reported that Abdulaziz Ahmed, currently detained at the Cass County Jail, is the primary suspect in these thefts. Ahmed, 29, allegedly committed the thefts during June, September, and October 2023. Mitzel noted that there were five incidents of theft reported between September 27 and October 6, with Ahmed identified in all cases.

The nature of these thefts escalated when Ahmed reportedly taunted employees, creating a threatening atmosphere during the incidents. Staff members of Happy Harry’s collaborated with the Fargo and West Fargo police to monitor Ahmed’s actions, but company policy prevented them from directly confronting him for safety reasons. It remains unclear if he was armed during the thefts.

Mitzel recounted an incident where a police officer advised employees to call dispatch and report a robbery whenever Ahmed entered the store. This strategy aimed to ensure a timely police response. Despite the increasing thefts, Happy Harry’s has opted not to implement stringent security measures that might alienate customers. Instead, the company is testing new marketing strategies, including the use of cardboard cutouts and dummy bottles to showcase high-end liquor.

The case is under review by the Fargo Police Department, which has forwarded reports of the thefts to the Cass County State’s Attorney’s Office. A representative from the office confirmed receipt of the reports but declined to comment on any potential charges against Ahmed, who is currently facing unrelated drug charges.

As liquor stores like Happy Harry’s face ongoing challenges with shoplifting, management is exploring innovative approaches to maintain a welcoming shopping environment while protecting their inventory.