K-9 Blaze Finds Shoplifting Suspect Hiding in Bushes After Car Crash: Hamden Police

HAMDEN, CT — A shoplifting suspect was found hiding in the bushes by K-9 Blaze after fleeing the scene of an accident on foot, after police say he went through a red light and collided with another vehicle while fleeing from Kohl’s Department Store.

Hamden Police responded to Kohl’s, located at 2380 Dixwell Avenue, at about 6:15 p.m. on Dec. 29 on the report of shoplifting.

Officers were advised that a loss prevention officer attempted to detain the shoplifting suspect, who subsequently fled from the area in a motor vehicle, according to Capt. Ronald Smith.

Moments later, Officer Robert O’Neill observed the vehicle in the area of Pine Rock Avenue. The operator of the vehicle, who was later identified as Kahshem Douglas, continued southbound on Pine Rock Avenue.

Smith said Douglas proceeded through a red light at the intersection of Pine Rock Avenue and Woodin Street and collided with another vehicle that was traveling on Woodin Street. There were no reported injuries.

Douglas fled from the vehicle on foot, according to Smith.

Officer William May and his K-9 partner “Blaze” conducted a track, which lead to the discovery and arrest of Douglas.

Smith said he was found hiding in bushes, in the rear yard of a Welch Street residence, and several stolen items were located nearby.

Douglas, 26, of Pine Rock Avenue, was arrested on charges of sixth-degree larceny, interfering with a police officer, reckless driving, engaging an officer in pursuit and operating a motor vehicle under suspension.

Douglas, who was released after posting a $5,000 bond, is scheduled to appear in Meriden Superior Court on Jan. 12.

Pictured: Kahshem Douglas, 26, of Hamden / via the Hamden Police Department

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