Employee Accused Of Stealing From Best Buy In Mentor

A seasonal employee at the Best Buy in Mentor is accused of stealing more than $2,000 worth of merchandise from the store.

Deric Estes Jr., 20, of Euclid, worked at the retailer in December. During that month, he took $2,435 worth of iPods, video games and other equipment, Mentor Police Lt. Ken Zbiegien said.

The store noticed the missing equipment, investigated it and identified Estes as the culprit, according to police. They then contacted police.

Estes was charged with a felony count of theft and arraigned Friday in Mentor Municipal Court.

He was released on a personal bond and his next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 10.