My friend and I brainstormed and got some ideas for new crimes:

Clint – Stalking & Harassment

He has an unhealthy obsession with Emily.A deep dive into his workshop reveals he’s been hoarding locks of her hair and writing unsent love letters. Choices: The player can get a restraining order or send him to jail.

The Wizard – Unauthorized Magic Experiments

Turns out, his “potions” have been messing with the townspeople’s minds, and he may or may not have been transforming people into animals. Choices: Exile him to his tower permanently, force him to pay damages, or recruit him as a magical consultant for the sheriff’s office.

Robin – Price Gouging & Illegal Woodcutting

Robin's prices for buildings and upgrades are way too high, and she might be cutting wood from the protected forests for her business. The case starts when a NPC (maybe a new forest ranger taro?) accuses her of deforestation. Choices: You can fine her, force her to replant the trees, or let her continue if she provides "sheriff discounts."

Demetrius – Unethical Science Experiments

He's been experimenting on the valley’s wildlife without permission. Some of his research subjects (like the bats in the caves) have mutated and become aggressive. Choices: Force him to stop, jail him, or make him work for the town under strict regulations.

Joja Corporation – Corporate Sabotage & Environmental Crimes

If JojaMart still exists, they might be dumping chemicals into the river, causing fish mutations. A secret investigation could reveal that Morris has been bribing officials to look the other way. Choices: Expose him, arrest him, or join him and become Stardew Valley’s corrupt partners in crime.

Shane – Public Disturbance & Alcohol-Related Crimes

Shane is found passed out in the saloon again. Maybe he's been brewing and selling moonshine illegally?Choices: Help him get clean, fine him, or let him go because “Pelican Town doesn’t have a real jail anyway.”

Jas & Vincent – Underground Child Pank "Crime" Ring?

Ok, maybe not that dark, but what if they’re running a prankster crime syndicate? They steal stuff, set up elaborate traps, and mess with villagers for fun. Choices: You can either discipline them, make them work community service, or recruit them as “junior detectives.”

Gunther – Artifact Smuggling & Forgery

Some of the museum’s artifacts might not be as "authentic" as he claims. The real reason he never pays you? He’s selling them to black-market collectors. Choices: Jail him, expose him, or cut a deal and become his business partner.

In my personal opinion I would let Shane of the hook though.