Armed Thief Steals 60-Inch TV From Walmart: Police

WOODSTOCK, IL – A 24-year-old Woodstock man tried to walk out of a Walmart without paying for a 60-inch TV Monday evening and brandished a handgun when employees tried to stop him, according to police and media reports. Luis E. Arreola-Gonzalez, of 526 Birch Road in Woodstock, was arrested near the Walmart at 1275 Lake Avenue in Woodstock following the robbery, which was reported at about 5 p.m. on Monday.

Witnesses told police the thief attempted to steal merchandise and pulled out a gun when an employee asked to a receipt for the item, according to a news release from the Woodstock Police Department.

Police said the suspect then fled on foot with the merchandise. He got away, initially, with the 60-inch Vizio TV, which was valued at $700, the Northwest Herald reports.

But responding officers spotted the suspect and ended up taking him into custody near the Walmart property.

Arreola-Gonzalez has been charged with aggravated robbery, obstructing justice, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

He remained in custody at the McHenry County Correctional Facility as of Tuesday afternoon. His bond has been set at $14,300, and he is next expected in court on Feb. 26.

The Woodstock Police Department is asking anyone who can provide credible information regarding the incident to contact authorities at 815-338-2131.

Photo via the Woodstock Police Department