Law enforcement responded to a reported theft at a local retail store. Upon investigation, officers reviewed surveillance footage and collected statements and evidence from store personnel, which indicated that merchandise had been taken without payment.
On February 21, the Knoxville Police Department was dispatched to the 800 block of W. Bell Avenue at Walmart in Knoxville following a report of theft. Upon arrival, officers made contact with the store’s asset protection employee.
According to the criminal complaint, the employee informed officers that he had identified 30-year-old Jessica Swan of Russel on surveillance footage stealing from the store on February 2. Court documents indicate that the employee provided law enforcement with a written statement, video footage, and several other documents related to the incident. The total value of the stolen merchandise was $78.96.
Police reports state that upon reviewing the footage, officers observed Swan at a self-checkout kiosk. After scanning the items, Swan allegedly pressed the “checkout” button but did not attempt to pay with cash or a card. He then stood at the kiosk briefly before walking out of the store with the unpaid merchandise.
A warrant for Swan’s arrest was issued and served on March 11. He was taken into custody at the Marion County Jail and later released on a $1,000 cash/surety bond. Swan is charged with fifth-degree theft, a simple misdemeanor.
Editors Note: All information was obtained from court documents related to the ongoing investigation.
