The Ephrata Police Department arrested Vianel Rodriguez-Martinez, 54, of West Palm Beach, Florida, for Retail Theft, Conspiracy to Commit Retail Theft, and Evading Arrest or Detention on Foot. On 07/31/2026 at 12:05 p.m., Ephrata Police Officers responded to Walmart, 890 E. Main Street, Ephrata Township for shoplifting in progress. Upon arrival, officers were directed by loss prevention to a male in the parking lot that was observed stealing merchandise. As officers attempted to speak to the male, he fled on foot through the parking lot. The male was eventually detained and identified as Rodriguez-Martinez. Officers reviewed video footage and observed Rodriguez-Martinez attempt to leave Walmart without paying for two speaker systems valued at $928.00. Rodriguez-Martinez was arrested, processed and arraigned by MDJ Landis.  Rodriguez-Martinez was committed to Lancaster County Prison in lieu of $35,000 cash bail.

Rodriguez-Martinez is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.