An Alpena man is facing charges after he was busted stealing merchandise by switching the barcodes on items at Walmart.
Michigan State Police officials say 36-year-old Joseph Carl Alexander was caught taking barcodes off less expensive items and putting them on more expensive items.
Alexander has been charged with first-degree retail fraud.
MSP officials said a loss prevention associate at the Walmart on M-32 in Alpena noticed the man was trying to pull off his trick one day. When he went to the self-checkout register and scanned the items, the items registered did not match what he was scanning, according to MSP.
When the employee tried to talk to the suspect after the purchase, the man said he had to go outside to check on his children.
He then fled the scene after leaving the store.
Authorities were able to use surveillance footage to identify the suspect as Alexander. Officials then discovered he had done that multiple times since June.
In total, more Alexander scammed the store out of more than $1,100 in merchandise.
Police officials did not say what types of items Alexander allegedly stole.
A warrant for Alexander’s arrest was issued last Friday and he was taken into custody on Tuesday.
Alexander was arraigned in the 88th District Court of Alpena on one count first-degree retail fraud and habitual offender, fourth notice. His bond was set at $25,000/10% cash surety.
His next court appearance is set for Sept. 13.
Down the Audacy app and follow 97.1 FM Talk.
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok
Related
Related
