Eagan Police Arrest Man on Felony Theft and Burglary Tool Possession Charges
EAGAN, MINNESOTA—A Memphis man has been arrested and charged with felony possession of burglary or theft tools and felony theft following an incident at the TJ Maxx in Eagan. The suspect, identified as Montavious Dewayne Fowler, 24, was taken into custody on March 6, 2025, after police responded to a report of suspicious activity at the store.
According to the Eagan Police Department, officers were dispatched to the scene following reports of a known shoplifter allegedly concealing merchandise inside two large suitcases. Loss prevention employees at the business had been monitoring the suspect, who was seen exiting the store allegedly without paying for the items.
Upon arrest, officers allegedly recovered merchandise valued at $1,487.21 before taxes. Additionally, Fowler was found in possession of a magnet reportedly used to remove security sensors from store merchandise. Authorities confirmed his identity and took him into custody.
Fowler has been charged with two felony counts:
Possession of Burglary or Theft Tools (Minnesota Statute 609.59) – punishable by up to three years in prison and/or a fine of $1,500 to $5,000.
Theft (Over $1,000 up to $5,000) (Minnesota Statute 609.52.2(a)(1)) – punishable by up to five years in prison and/or a fine of $3,000 to $10,000.
Previous Legal Issues and Bail Conditions
Court records show that Fowler has a history of theft-related charges in Hennepin County, including two separate felony theft cases and a misdemeanor theft case in Apple Valley. He failed to appear in court for hearings in both jurisdictions, resulting in multiple bench warrants.
Due to his history of theft and failure to appear in court, bail was requested to be set at $20,000 without conditions or $15,000 with conditions. Bond was eventually set at $10,000 without conditions and $4,000 with conditions. It appears Fowler might have posted bail, as he is no longer being shown to be housed in the Dakota County Jail, but we are working to confirm these details.
This article provides an overview of the allegations against Fowler, detailing the charges, evidence, and potential legal outcomes. The community is reminded that charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Further updates on this case will depend on the progress of the legal proceedings.
This story is still developing, so additional updates are to come.
Written by: Will Wight
