Clayton, MO – A routine shoplifting call at a Walmart store turned violent when a suspect allegedly assaulted a police officer while attempting to escape, resulting in serious injuries and felony charges. The suspect, a Wentzville man, now faces multiple charges and remains in custody as he awaits a court hearing.
What Happened?
According to FOX 2, the incident took place on July 29, shortly after 7:10 p.m. at the Walmart located in the 7400 block of Watson Road. A loss prevention officer at the store observed a man, later identified as George J. Johnson, concealing merchandise while being monitored via security cameras.
When Johnson attempted to leave the store without paying, the store’s loss prevention officer approached him. Johnson reportedly ignored orders to stop and continued walking toward the outer exit.
Escalation and Injury
A Shrewsbury police officer soon arrived on scene and confronted Johnson, instructing him to return to the store. At that point, the suspect began to flee.
The physical altercation that followed was described in police reports as sudden and violent:
- The officer attempted to detain Johnson at the outer exit.
- Johnson allegedly slammed the officer into a row of shopping carts.
- He then performed a leg sweep, causing both of them to fall.
- As they tried to get up, the officer experienced sharp pain in his left arm and chest.
- Johnson fled on foot, leaving the officer behind, injured.
Medical evaluation later confirmed that the officer had suffered a torn left pectoralis muscle and damaged tendons, which significantly restrict his ability to use his left arm.
“Johnson admitted multiple times during a phone call that he slammed the officer and ran,” police wrote in their statement.
Arrest and Charges
Johnson was located and arrested a short time later. He now faces the following charges:
- Second-degree assault – special victim
- Resisting arrest
The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has set Johnson’s bond at $150,000 cash-only. His bond reduction hearing is scheduled for August 7, and a preliminary hearing is expected on September 4.
A Pattern of Escalating Shoplifting Crimes?
Though the stolen merchandise itself was not detailed in the report, the violence surrounding the incident has reignited debate over how shoplifting cases are handled when suspects resist or turn aggressive. For officers responding to these calls, what begins as a retail theft investigation can quickly evolve into a dangerous confrontation.
“This officer walked into what should’ve been a routine stop. Now he’s facing a long recovery, and that’s something every department takes seriously,” a law enforcement official familiar with the case told FOX 2.
Do you think officers should change how they engage suspects during retail theft investigations?
Join the conversation at BethelAdvocate.com — your opinions help shape safer communities.
