COLUMBUS, Ind. -- When thinking about somebody shoplifting from a store, the assumption is that they would take one or two smaller items and hide them in their clothes.
But police in Columbus say one man tried to take 178 items from the local Wal-Mart, filling a cart to the brim.
Police say 19-year-old Gage Janusch tried to steal cell phone cases, chargers, a BB gun and other items. The total cost of his alleged attempted spree? $3,100.
A Columbus police lieutenant says it’s one of the biggest shoplifting attempts he’s ever seen.
“The cart was essentially overflowing with items,” Lt. Matt Harris said. “Most of the shoplifting cases we go on -- might be anywhere from $10 to $100, maybe $200 but you know, $3,100 is a huge amount in regards to this type of theft.”
Police say a loss prevention officer stopped Janusch as he went to leave the store.
When asked about the incident, Janusch said he was not in the right state of mind and he takes responsibility for the incident. He also said he’s working to better himself.
Wal-Mart declined comment on the incident.
Janusch faces a preliminary felony charge of theft.
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