A Linton man accused of shoplifting items worth under $18 was arrested and charged with theft.

Aaron Joseph Beaver, 29, Linton, was arrested by Officer Orry Phipps of the Linton Police Department on Thursday, February 10.

Beaver was stopped by Asset Protection Associates (APA) at the Walmart store in Linton who called the Linton Police Department and reported they had caught Beaver shoplifting.

When Officer Phipps, who was dispatched around 3:58 p.m., talked to APA personnel, he learned one had watched Beaver select a four-pack of silicone rings from the jewelry department and a Dickies brand belt from the apparel department before he went to the craft department and removed the rings from the packaging and put two of the rings on his own fingers. Beaver allegedly then went to the hardware department where he tore the tag off the belt then went to the toy department where he put the belt on. Beaver then allegedly walked past all check-outs and attempted to leave the store without purchasing the items.

APA personnel stopped Beaver in the vestibule area and they said Beaver admitted his actions.

Beaver was transported to the Greene County Jail by LPD Officer Davis Aerne.

Officer Phipps stayed behind at the store where APA personnel provided him with a DVD of video from the store’s surveillance system that recorded the incident. Officer Phipps reported that when he viewed the video, it confirmed the allegations made by APA personnel.

The total value of items taken was $17.88.

Beaver was booked into jail at 4:43 p.m. with bond set at $1,000 surety with ten percent cash allowed. He posted $100 and was released later the same day.

Beaver has been charged with theft, a Class A misdemeanor.