Crime & Safety

Newport Police: Homeless Man Charged With Shoplifting

Carlton James Purdy, 45, of Newport, is accused of swiping a cellphone and two Bluetooth speakers.

NEWPORT, RI — Police on Monday arrested a 45-year-old homeless man who went into the Lawn and Garden shop at the Connell Highway Wal-Mart. Carlton James Purdy, of Newport, was wanted for allegedly stealing merchandise on Feb. 16. According to the arrest report, he was caught on video pocketing a cellphone and two Bluetooth speakers. Police obtained a warrant for his arrest. He is being charged with Felony shoplifting and being an habitual offender, a misdemeanor. The store called police at 8:43 a.m. to report a suspicious person in the Lawn and Garden shop.

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