Shoplifting Spree Ends in Felony Arrest

Just before 8pm on Saturday, April 20th, Bainbridge Public Safety Officer John Walker responded to Walmart in reference to a shoplifter in custody. A loss prevention associate had seen the male subject shoplifting items, and was recognized as the same man who had shoplifted multiple items from the store the day before.

Back-up officers arrived on scene and located the suspect’s vehicle in the parking lot bearing an Alabama tag. When the tag was entered in the system, it came back to a different vehicle. The suspect, later identified as Rodney Paul Burgans (43) of Gordon, Alabama was placed under arrest. He admitted to changing out the tag on his vehicle to keep from being identified.

In his two-day crime spree, Burgans stole items, including two televisions, from the Bainbridge Walmart totaling close to $1,400. A search of his vehicle revealed many of the items taken from Walmart, as well as several new tools believed to have been stolen from another retail store. He was also found in possession of two electronic security deactivation devices which could be used to turn off the alarm sensor which stores often attach to an item of value.

Burgans was arrested and charged with Theft by Shoplifting and Unlawful Use of License Plates. The case was turned over to Investigator Chris Jordan for further investigation which led to a Felony Shoplifting charge. Investigator Jordan stated, “Burgans has an extensive arrest record, not just for shoplifting. We are glad we were able to catch this guy who came to Bainbridge from out-of-state to steal from our local retail establishments.”