Shoplifter slashes LP agent with box cutter www.privateofficer.com

Redding CA July 11 2010 A suspected shoplifter allegedly used a box cutter to slash an agent who helped wrestle the man to the ground outside ShopKo in Redding on Saturday afternoon.

A second loss prevention agent also was injured in the violent struggle with Nathan Totten, 27, of Redding, police Sgt. Jay Guterding said.

Totten, who allegedly attempted to steal clothes from the store, was booked into the Shasta County jail on suspicion of robbery, burglary, assault with a deadly weapon and drug possession, Guterding said.

Totten had methamphetamine with him when he was apprehended, Guterding said.

Police were called to the store on Lake Boulevard about 3:15 p.m. after getting a report that two plainclothes loss prevention agents were attempting to detain a shoplifter.

The agents, Tom Trueb, 45, of Redding and Jimmy Robinson, tackled Totten on the sidewalk in front of the store, Guterding said. Trueb suffered two deep cuts to both hands from the box cutter in the struggle, Guterding said.

Robinson suffered scrapes and cuts. Both men later sought medical treatment.

“The Redding Police Department staff would like to recognize these agents for their service and dedication, and we wish them a speedy recovery,” Guterding said in a press statement.

Totten was being held in lieu of $75,000 bail.