A North Platte woman has been accused of playing a role in stealing thousands of dollars from JC Penney’s.

At around 10:10 a.m., on June 6, an investigation began at JC Penney’s, in the Platte River Mall, in regards to employee theft.

Management reported that hey had discovered that three employees had been stealing from the business.

It was determined that the employees had been selling items to each other at heavily discounted prices, then returning the for a full-price refund.

Investigator John Deal said that the thefts by the employees resulted in thousands of dollars worth of loss to the store.

One of the employees was identified  19-year-old Ashleigh Larson.

Deal said it was determined that Larson caused over $500 worth of loss to the store.

On June 26, Larson was contacted and charged with felony theft by deception.

Deal said the investigation is still on going in regards to the other employees.