By: Richard L. Smith
Police in Maplewood are continuing to investigate circumstances surrounding an attack that happened inside one of the township stores last week.
According to Maplewood Police Chief Albert Sally, on July 22nd, Maplewood Police officers responded to a shoplifting incident at The Maple Check at 1942 Springfield Avenue.
Chief Sally said the male suspect involved had been previously advised not to return to the store due to a past tense shoplifting incident. However, the individual disregarded the warning later that evening and returned to the business.
Upon confronting the male subject, Chief Sally said the store's Manager called the police to report the incident.
According to the caller, the situation escalated when the suspect, Mr. Derek Marshall of East Orange, struck him in the face with a bag containing the stolen bottle of wine, causing the bottle to break.
As a result, Chief Sally said the Manager defended himself, striking the Marshall on the top of his head and causing a laceration.
The Manager reported minor injuries but refused medical attention during the initial response.
Chief Sally said Marshall was arrested by responding officers and taken to University Hospital for treatment for his head laceration.
Following a thorough investigation, Marshall was charged with Simple Assault, Trespassing, and Theft. Despite the severity of the incident, he was later released on a summons.
The Maple Check and local authorities are taking this incident seriously and continue to remind the public about the importance of respecting store policies and personal boundaries.
RLS Media learned that no customers were injured during the confrontation.