Source The Charlotte Observer
A Walgreens patron spent an astounding five hours in the store’s restroom, only to emerge after closing for an illegal feast of junk food, according to Florida investigators.
The odd case of “entrapment” is believed to be intentional, resulting in the 46-year-old man facing a burglary charge, the New Smyrna Beach Police Department said in a news release.
He was discovered around 3 a.m. Monday, July 15, when officers responded to an alarm at the pharmacy. The store closed at 10 p.m.
“As officers arrived, they could see the male through the front doors of the business taking a pack of cigarettes from behind the counter,” police said.
“Security camera footage showed the male enter the business at 9:40 p.m. and enter the restroom. The male is then seen exiting the bathroom at 2:42 a.m. and walking around the store treating himself to various merchandise items.”
He “made no attempts to exit the business or call for help to get out,” police said.
A search outside the store revealed the man’s pockets were stuffed with candy bars, video shows.
“(He) was found to have taken and consumed several items including Tostitos spinach dip, chips, Reese’s chocolate, Ghirardelli chocolate bars, Dr Pepper, and Newport cigarettes while inside the store,” police said.
The suspect told police he “came in to use the bathroom,” video shows.
Investigators did not say what the man did during his five hours in the restroom.
He is charged with burglary of unoccupied structure, larceny/petit theft, resisting an officer without violence and battery on a law enforcement officer, police said.
New Smyrna Beach is a 55-mile drive northeast from Orlando.
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