HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) - Nine people have been charged as part of a retail theft scheme where $850,000 was profited from T.J. Maxx, HomeGoods, and Marshalls stores in Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania Attorney General's office says three alleged ring leaders and six others are facing charges for allegedly stealing merchandise, altering receipts, and making returns that resulted in large payouts.

The organization targeted more than 1,000 stores in nine different states, however, most of the transitions happened in southeastern Pennsylvania in and around suburban Philadelphia.

The alleged leaders are Davon Whitfield, 40, of Roslyn; Naima Scott, 47, of Abington; and Zonay Griffin, 26, of Philadelphia.

The Attorney General's office alleged the trio made approximately 1,500 transactions worth more than $700,000 in payouts. They are charged with numerous felonies, including corrupt organizations, organized retail theft, forgery, and conspiracy.

Six other alleged members of the organization charged are Shakeira Vivan, Miara Armstead, Harry Anderson, Lamar Washington, Jasmine Reese, and Myles Hartman.

“This was a sophisticated, highly-profitable scheme involving hundreds of transactions circumventing return policies — but make no mistake about it, this conduct is theft,” Attorney General Michelle Henry said. “I want to thank our partners with the Pennsylvania State Police and my staff for conducting a thorough investigation, as well as the dedicated work of the grand jurors.”

“These crimes affect not only retailers but the communities they serve. Retail theft harms us all by driving up the prices of essential goods,” said PSP Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris. “The Pennsylvania State Police and our law enforcement partners are dedicated to protecting our communities from the selfish acts of those who seek financial gain from crimes like this.”