Missouri manager accused of staging $9K robbery for auto repairs

FESTUS, Mo. — An Auto Zone manager in Jefferson County, Missouri, faces criminal charges after allegedly staging a robbery at his own store and filing a false police report. Alen Cole Wilson, who initially claimed to be a victim, is now accused of conspiring with a someone else to steal thousands of dollars from the business.

According to court documents, Wilson initially reported a robbery at the Auto Zone store on the evening of May 2, 2024, where he was the on-duty manager. He claimed a man forced him to open the safe and cash registers, stealing cash.

A later “non-custodial interview” revealed another story. Police say Wilson allegedly admitted to staging the robbery. He told the other suspect about a large amount of cash in the business safe and knew when the crime was going to take place. Wilson expected to be paid for his participation in the form of vehicle repairs from the other suspect.

The total amount allegedly stolen in this scheme was $9,000. Wilson has a court date in October.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.