Empty-Headed Thief Shoplifts Illinois Target During Police Gift Event

An Illinois man who apparently was craving his favorite vino, but low on funds, didn't count on local police having their annual Christmas shopping event in the store where he was shoplifting on Saturday (12/10).

This was the 28th year officers from the Rockford Police Department took "underprivileged" kids shopping at a local Target store where they could pick out clothes, gifts, and toys, according to a report from WIFR-TV.

As the "shop with a cop" event was wrapping up at Target on E. State Street, an employee of the store witnessed a man attempting to leave the store with bottles of wine.

According to a press release from the Rockford Police Department, an Asset Protection Supervisor at Target requested assistance from local officers who were still in the store following the shopping event just before 10 am.

When Rockford Police officers attempted to make contact with the suspect, he reportedly tried to flee the scene but was detained after a brief struggle, according to the press release.

The suspect in the shoplifting was identified as 47-year-old William Carr of Rockford, Illinois who has been charged with:

• Retail Theft
• Resisting Arrest
• Outstanding Illinois Department of Corrections Warrant

Carr's charges are "merely accusations" and he is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, according to the Rockford Police Department.

Rockford PD is looking for tips about this incident and others by calling 815-966-2500 or you can send information anonymously via text by sending RPDTIP and your tip to 847411.

Rockford Area Crimestoppers also take anonymous tips at 815-963-7867.