Crowley Police have arrested a man who allegedly tried to steal more than $10,000 worth of electronics from the WalMart.
Robert Lee Williams, 25, of Galveston, allegedly led police on a chase and then crashed his vehicle, Chief Jimmy Broussard says.
Williams is accused of trying to steal approximately $11,000.00 worth of electronic merchandise from the local Walmart Supercenter, the chief said.
Officers with Crowley Police Patrol and Communications were called just before 5 a.m. by Walmart personnel, who said they witnessed Williams getting into a vehicle with the stolen merchandise. Officers arrived on scene, and began to chase with the suspect vehicle; Williams allegedly tried to get away via Interstate 10 but crashed at the Duson exit, the chief said.
Officers searched his vehicle, and allegedly found all the stolen items, the chief said.
Officers also obtained surveillance video from Wal-Mart, and got an arrest warrant for Williams. He was booked with felony theft and aggravated flight from an officer; other charges are pending. A Lake Charles resident, Patrail Yell, 32, was arrested at the scene of the crash and booked with a probation violation. A third person is being questioned, the chief said.
“I want to applaud our officers for their outstanding quick work in bringing this case to a lightning fast resolution,” Broussard said. “As the holidays approach, it is unfortunate that crimes like this see a spike in numbers. That is why I am extremely proud of our officers and investigators for solving this so quick.”
Broussard also thanked the Acadia Parish Sheriff Department for their assistance in helping officers locate the suspect. Investigators are continuing in their efforts on this case, and further arrests will probably follow, he said.
