A juvenile was found in possession of more than just stolen goods after a run-in with the Special Problem Unit’s anti-shoplifting detail.

On December 13th at approximately 1:48 p.m. First Sergeant D.F. Purcell and Deputy M.A. Pearce of the Special Problems Unit were at Walmart, located at 125 Washington Square Plaza, conducting an anti-shoplifting detail. While there, Deputy Pearce observed a male wearing a ski mask and acting suspiciously.

As Deputy Pearce continued to keep a watchful eye on the suspect, his watchful eye would observe the suspect stuffing goods into his pants. The suspect would begin to make his way towards the exit, where First Sergeant Purcell was already positioned. As the suspect began jogging towards the exit, First Sergeant Purcell would attempt to make contact with him. Instead, the suspect would continue his fleeing attempt and resist detention. After a brief struggle, and with the assistance of Deputy Pearce, the suspect was detained.

The stolen goods were recovered and returned to Walmart; however, they might not be as desirable now. Deputies also discovered the 17-year-old was in possession of a handgun. Criminal complaints for shoplifting, felony obstruction of justice by force, juvenile in possession of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, and wearing a mask in public were filed. Juvenile Intake was contacted and decided to detain the suspect. He was held at the Juvenile Detention Center.

Great work to the Special Problems Unit for not only stopping another shoplifting, but seizing a firearm from a juvenile.