JPD: Man Banned From Walmart Fled After Theft, Knife Found During Arrest

JONESBORO, Ark. — A man previously banned from all Walmart properties was arrested after police said he concealed merchandise in a backpack, left without paying and fled while an officer tried to check him for a knife.

Cameron Lakeem Lofton, 32, was arrested for commercial burglary, a Class C felony, and misdemeanor fleeing and resisting arrest.

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According to a probable cause affidavit, a Jonesboro police officer was working off-duty security June 2 at Walmart, 1815 E. Highland Drive, when staff notified him that a man later identified as Lofton was concealing merchandise in a backpack.

Police said Lofton noticed the officer’s presence and attempted to avoid him by changing direction and going into the restroom for about 30 minutes.

Lofton eventually exited the store through the front doors with the concealed merchandise without paying, according to the affidavit.

Walmart asset protection contacted Lofton outside the store. While Lofton was being escorted back into Walmart by a JPD officer, the officer noticed Lofton appeared to be concealing a large knife, the affidavit said.

The officer attempted to check Lofton for weapons, but police said Lofton kept reaching into the front of his pants, refused commands and pulled away.

Lofton then fled on foot, according to the affidavit. Other officers responded and chased Lofton while firing multiple Taser cartridges at him with no effect. Police said Lofton was then tackled on the ground until more officers arrived.

A knife was taken from Lofton after his arrest, according to the affidavit.

The stolen merchandise was returned to Walmart and was valued at $320.13.

During the investigation, officers learned Lofton had been criminally banned from all Walmart properties in relation to a prior theft conviction, according to the affidavit.

Lofton’s next court date is July 30. District Judge Tommy Fowler set bail at $75,000 cash or surety, noting a “long history of theft.”

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.