Walmart Shopping Center Incident Leads to Two Arrests on Warrants and Shoplifting Charges
MURRIETA, CA – Two individuals were taken into custody following an incident at a local shopping center late Thursday. Officers from the Murrieta Police Department, engaged in supplemental patrols in the Walmart shopping center parking lot, observed a male subject exhibiting behavior consistent with checking vehicle door handles. Upon noticing the presence of law enforcement, the male proceeded directly to his vehicle, where officers subsequently initiated contact.
A records check conducted through Murrieta dispatch identified that the male possessed an active felony warrant for previous drug convictions (11395(b)(1) H&S) and was on formal probation. A search of the individual resulted in the discovery of fentanyl and associated narcotics paraphernalia.
While addressing the male subject, officers received information indicating that his female companion, inside the store, was allegedly involved in concealing merchandise. The female was located by officers inside the retail establishment and subsequently arrested on suspicion of shoplifting.
The male was processed and booked on charges including his outstanding felony warrant, drug possession, a new felony charge of 11395(b)(1) H&S, and probation violation. The female was booked on charges of felony petty theft with priors (666.1 PC) and shoplifting. Both individuals were transported to the Southwest Detention Center. The incident concluded the specialized patrol efforts in the area.
