Man Charged With Robbery Fights With Security Guard At Fair Lawn ShopRite: Police

A man was charged with robbery after he allegedly stole items from ShopRite and fought with a security guard, Fair Lawn police said.

Brandon James, 26, of Hawthorne, was charged after he was allegedly caught shoplifting $270 worth of merchandise from ShopRite Dec. 21, said Sgt. Brian Metzler.

James attempted to leave the underground parking garage with the merchandise, but he was stopped by store security, Metzler said.

James asked the guard if he was a police officer before he started fighting with him and tried to get away, Metzler said.

Police found business checks, which did not belong to him, along with evidence of drug use, was found among James’ property, police said.

James was charged with receiving stolen property, forgery, possession of a controlled dangerous substance, and possession of a hypodermic needle in addition to the robbery charge, police said.

James’ bail was set at $5,000 and he was sent to Bergen County Jail, Metzler said.