Logging on, a Shoplift Custody is holding at the discount department store. Loss Prevention at the store is top notch. I call.
Hey Ash, It's RD.
What’s the name?
"Mark Johnson. "
Middle?
"He doesn’t have one."
Date of Birth?
"2/2/88."
Is he white?
"Yes."
ID?
"None."
Where’s he from?
"Indiana."
Right. That name is horse hockey. I’ll be there in ten minutes with a fingerprint machine. Tell him he better tell me his name when I arrive or I’ll haul him to jail.
Thanks Ash.
The name is UTL in the box.
Fear brings the fingerprint machine.
In the LP office, I introduce myself to the custody. Fear stands behind me.
You are under arrest.
I produce my Miranda Card and read it out-loud to the thief.
Do you understand?
My tone is grim.
He says, "Yes, sir."
I will be issuing you a citation for Theft in the Third Degree. It is a crime to give a police office a false name when he issues you a citation.
Do you understand?
"Yes, sir."
You told the store your name is Mark Johnson. Is that correct?
"No, sir."
What is your name?
"Robert James Smith."
What is your date of birth?
"2/4/87."
"I am sorry for wasting everyone's time. I apologize."
I nod.
Do you have a warrant?
"I think so, for UUMV, but I didn't steal the car..."
I walk back to my car and put him in the box. He's there, but he's not hot. I pull his photo. It's a match.
Back in the office, I check to match listed scars. I see he's riddled with abscesses
Why did you steal today?
Is it for resale?
"No, it just that, I have these abscesses. My legs are covered with them and I need new socks and underwear."
I nod.
When did you start using heroin?
"When I was 27."
How long have you been on the street?
"Five years."
How many times have you overdosed?
"Twice. "
You are in danger of blood poisoning. I'm going to tell you something, like I'm your dad. I'm going to tell you a secret. Nobody in this city cares about you other than you. People want to keep you homeless. They make money off keeping you homeless.
Walk yourself up to St. Vincent de Paul at 13th and Winter. Check your self into rehab. It might take four times, but you are on the path of losing a limb. I want to see you in four years and you're clean.
Do you understand?
Yes, sir!
He's trying not to cry.
I issue him the summons and tell him the court date.
Now, I am going to unhandcuff you. You are going to walk out here like an adult. You are not going to say anything and I going to escort you to the door.
Do you understand?
"Yes, sir!"
Good, because if you cause trouble, I am going to have to rethink this deal.
I walk him out and send him on his way.
