January 18, 2012 Shoplifters fight police during arrest in Gilbert www.privateofficer.com
Gilbert AZ Jan 18 2012 A man is in custody after he attempted to steal from a Gilbert department store and refused to cooperate with police on Monday, authorities said. A female companion was also taken into custody.
Andrew Pritchert, 27, and Julia Couts, 37, were arrested around 6:30 p.m. Monday after they were seen allegedly removing tags and concealing items at a Kohl’s Department Store near Cooper and Baseline roads.
Officers attempted to contact Pritchert, who appeared to have a weapon in his pants pocket, but the suspect refused to cooperate, said Sgt. William Balafas of the Gilbert Police Department.
Pritchert tried to reach into his pocket and struggled briefly with officers before they took him into custody. Police said that a handgun was found in his pocket.
Police searched Pritchert’s car, where they found drug paraphernalia and possible stolen property. Balafas said an investigation into stolen credit cards and IDs found in his car is ongoing.
Pritchert, who police say has an extensive criminal history, was booked on counts of weapons misconduct, shoplifting, drug paraphernalia, obstructing government operations and failure to obey. Couts was booked on one count of shoplifting.
Note: Chandler police updated the information to change the male suspect’s name to Andrew Pritchert. Police said the suspect initially provided a false name, which could lead to additional charges of forgery and identity theft.
Source:www.azcentral.com
Tags: 27, and Julia Couts, Andrew Pritchert
