Woman Accused of Shoplifting, Fighting with Store Security at BonTon in Hamden

A New Haven woman faces robbery and larceny charges after allegedly shoplifting more than $400 from the BonTon on Dixwell Avenue and then scratching a store security officer in the face, according to a police press release.

Hamden police responded to 2300 Dixwell Avenue at about 4:30 p.m. on Thursday on the report of a shoplifting involving violence.

Police said that store security observed Crystal Austin exit BonTon with $408 of unpaid merchandise and when a security officer approached her, she became combative and scratched him in the face.

Officers promptly arrested her and transported her to police headquarters.

Austin, 43, of 99 Bassett Street in New Haven, was charged with third-degree robbery and second-degree larceny. Austin, who was detained on a $25,000 bond, is scheduled to appear in Meriden Superior Court on Dec. 4.

Officer Michael DiMaria conducted the investigation.