According to Boardman Police Department reports, officers arrested a shoplifting suspect who crashed his car and tried to board a WRTA bus to evade police.
Witnesses called 9-1-1 after they saw a black Ford crash around 9:30 a.m. on Saturday on Boardman Poland Road near the Shops at Boardman Park.
After the driver crashed his car, reports say he ran away from the vehicle, heading toward the back of Raising Cane’s.
Police responded to the crash at the entrance to the Shops at Boardman Park, and starting checking the area for the suspect.
A BPD officer locatedthe suspect close to 10 a.m. about to board a WRTA bus nearby at Walmart, according to reports.
At first, reports say the suspect, who “had a large black backpack” would not comply with the order to place his hands behind his back.
When the officer brought out his taser, the suspect complied and was taken into custody.
According to BPD reports, the suspect was placed under arrest and initially denied being involved in any car accident.
Police found several items inside the backpack, including Nike hats, gloves and two perfume sets with “retail tags still attached.”
Reports say the suspect eventually admitted to recently stealing the merchandise and his involvement in the crash at the Shops at Boardman Park.
The suspect was taken to Mercy Health Boardman for treatment.
According to police reports, there were more than 20 items recovered from the backpack worth over $800.
After he’s cleared from Mercy Health, the suspect will be taken to Mahoning County Jail to wait for his court appearance.
Officials say he’s being charged with receiving stolen property and has warrants with BPD and the Youngstown Police Department.
This story was originally published December 3, 2024 at 8:09 AM