Walmart Thieves Caught With Illegal Gun And Methamphetamines

RAYNHAM, MA — After three people were caught trying to shoplift from a Walmart in Raynham over the weekend, police say they also found an illegal pistol and methamphetamines on the thieves during their arrest.

Officers responded to calls of active shoplifters at the Walmart on Paramount Drive in Raynham just after 2:50 p.m. Saturday, Raynham Police Chief James Donovan said.

John Butler, 36, of Brockton, John Patrick, 34, of Taunton, and Melissa Mendes, 42, of Taunton, were arrested after a brief struggle, police said.

Donovan said Butler originally tried to run away from officers but eventually was caught with a pistol with the serial number crossed out and a small number of methamphetamines on him.

Patrick and Mendes were arrested without incident, but investigators say they also had methamphetamines on them and about $620 in cash.

Butler is being charged with possession of a firearm with a defaced serial number, possession of a loaded firearm without a license, possession of a Class B substance, resisting arrest and shoplifting.

Patrick and Mendes are facing charges of possession of a Class B substance and resisting arrest.

All three are expected to be arraigned in Taunton District Court on Monday.