By Jim Clark

Police received a call from loss prevention personnel at the Kmart at 77 Middlesex Ave. last Friday on reports of a suspected shoplifter running through the store, attempting to escape capture through an emergency door at the rear of the building.

As police arrived they were informed that the suspect was detained by store personnel and was being held in the loss prevention office.

The loss prevention officer reportedly told police that the suspect, Maurice Bedard, 47, of Bedford, was observed taking three MP3 players, each valued at over $63, and cutting them out of their packaging, then concealing them on his person.

When confronted by store personnel, Bedard reportedly fled through the store towards the rear exit. He was apprehended by staff and held until police arrived.

Bedard was placed under arrest and charged with shoplifting by concealing merchandise.