Local man arrested after punching store security, fleeing with stolen goods

Kingston Police have arrested and charged a local man who became violent with store security after stealing items at a downtown Shoppers Drug Mart location.

The incident occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec 28, 2019. The accused man entered the store and began selecting merchandise. A store security officer observed the man placing merchandise into his jacket pocket before leaving the store without paying for the items.

The security officer approached the accused man outside the store and attempted to bring him back inside to await police arrival. Instead, the man attempted to run for the security officer, who was able to maintain control of the situation at the time. Then, the accused man threatened to seriously injure the security officer before punching him in the head. At that time, the accused man was able to escape, fleeing on foot with the stolen merchandise.

Police were called and responding officers were able to locate the accused man walking in the area of King Street at Queen Street. The 32-year-old Kingston man was charged with robbery, possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000, and breach of probation.