By Jim Clark

While changing a flat tire on a disabled vehicle outside Saks Off 5th on Grand Union Blvd. last week, a Somerville Police officer observed a Saks store employee attempting to stop a suspected shoplifter who was running away from him with merchandise in his hands.

The officer ran after the man, later identified as James Wright, and grabbed his arm. The officer asked Wright to get on the ground and he reportedly did not comply. The officer then took him down and handcuffed him.

The store employee recovered the stolen merchandise amounting to a sweatshirt, a duffle bag, and two pairs of pants, with a total value of $603.40.

Additionally, Wright had six Vichy skin care items and one men’s body spray. The officer asked Wright if he had a receipt for the items he was carrying, and he replied that the receipt had been emailed to him and he was unable to show a receipt.

The officer informed Wright that the items would be taken into evidence if he was unable to show a receipt and would only be released after showing a proof of purchase. Wright reportedly rsponded by accusing the officer of “stealing  his property.

The store employee told police that Wright entered the store, selected clothing items, and walked out without making any attempt to pay for them.

Wright was informed that he was under arrest for larceny under $1200 and he reportedly started insulting the officers on scene for arresting him, and said to them, “You feel good arresting a junky for shoplifting?”

Wright was subsequently transported to the Somerville Police headquarters for booking on the above stated charge.