By Jim Clark

Police officers were dispatched to the K-Mart store on Middlesex Avenue last Friday as the store’s Loss Prevention personnel reported that a suspected shoplifter had been detained and was becoming combative, police said.

Responding officers questioned the store’s security staff and learned that the suspect, Nelson Pereira, 29, was reportedly observed placing several gaming items into his jacket, according to reports.

As Pereira reportedly attempted to leave the store, security staff intercepted him and asked him to accompany them to the Loss Prevention office, at which time Pereira began running away, according to staff testimony.

Pereira was reportedly subdued and detained by Loss Prevention personnel after putting up a struggle, according to reports.

Pereira was placed under arrest by the responding officers and charged with larceny under $250.