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Former employees charged with theft at Spring Hill Steak n Shake

 
Published April 30, 2014

SPRING HILL — Two former Steak n Shake employees were arrested Tuesday after authorities say they stole $3,400 from the restaurant's safe during business hours.

A.J. Clark-Lamagno, 22, and Tomas Mercado, 47, face charges of commercial burglary and larceny. Clark-Lamagno also faces a number of drug-related charges. They were both being held Wednesday at the Hernando County Detention Center.

According to an arrest affidavit, Clark-Lamagno asked Mercado on Tuesday for a ride to the Steak n Shake at 4305 Commercial Way, telling him of his plan to steal the money. Deputies said Clark-Lamagno knew the safe's code. Mercado agreed to take him and to serve as the getaway driver.

Deputies said Mercado walked into the store and chatted with the cook while Clark-Lamagno slipped into the restroom. He left the restroom, then managed to get into the kitchen and cash office undetected.

Mercado told deputies that he took Clark-Lamagno to the restaurant knowing he was going to steal money from the safe. He also admitted to driving away from the scene.

Clark-Lamagno only admitted to entering the restaurant to use the restroom.