Home Depot Shoplifter Found With Cocaine: Hamden Police

HAMDEN, CT — A New Haven man is accused of stealing $800 worth of pressure washers from Home Depot on Thursday morning and attempted to steal another $430 item later in the day, according to police. The suspect was also found to be in the possession of four bags of crack cocaine when he was apprehended, according to Capt. Ronald Smith.

Hamden Police responded to The Home Depot, located at 1873 Dixwell Avenue, at about 7:45 a.m. on Oct. 5 on the report of shoplifting. Smith said investigation revealed that a man, later identified as Keith Highsmith, stole two “pressure washers” that were collectively worth $798. Highsmith fled southbound on Dixwell Avenue, while operating a Cadillac, according to Smith.

Then, at about 12:45p.m., Highsmith returned to The Home Depot and attempted to steal a “backpack leaf blower,” valued at $429, according to Smith. (To sign up for Hamden breaking news alerts and more, click here.)

A Loss Prevention Officer was successful in preventing the theft and Highsmith subsequently fled southbound on Dixwell Avenue, driving the Cadillac, Smith said.

“Moments later, Officers Kelley Cushman and Mark Sheppard observed the fleeing vehicle,” Smith said in a press release. “Officer Sheppard, who was operating an unmarked vehicle, observed Highsmith park the vehicle on Munson Street in New Haven. Officer Sheppard and several New Haven Police Officers quickly apprehended Highsmith after a short foot pursuit. Highsmith was in the possession of 4 bags of crack cocaine.”

Highsmith, 56, of Maple Street in New Haven, was arrested on charges of fourth-degree larceny, possession of narcotics, engaging a police officer in pursuit, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, reckless driving, misuse of plates, evading responsibility and following too closely.

Highsmith, who was also wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant for violation of probation, was detained on a $10,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in Meriden Superior Court on Oct. 19.

Like Hamden Patch on Facebook below:

Pictured: Keith Highsmith, 56, of New Haven/ Hamden Police Department