Obituary – Death – Cause of Death News :
Security Guard Accused of Holding Down Suspected Shoplifter Who Later died
In a tragic incident at a Safeway supermarket in Tigard, Oregon, a security guard contracted by the chain is under scrutiny after a suspected shoplifter he was holding down later died at a hospital. The Washington County District Attorney’s Office has accepted the case, according to Tigard Police.
The disturbing incident unfolded on August 9 when officers responded to a disturbance at the Safeway store. Witnesses reported that a loss prevention worker had apprehended a man suspected of shoplifting and was holding him on the ground, with some witnesses stating that the man was restrained by the neck.
When officers arrived on the scene, they found the man, identified as 46-year-old Michael Letendre, unconscious. Despite efforts to revive him, Letendre tragically passed away on August 16. The loss prevention worker, who was not a Safeway employee but worked for a contracted private security company, has not been charged with a crime and remains unnamed by police.
Safeway has since released a statement expressing their cooperation with the investigation and confirming that the security vendor has terminated the employee involved. The case continues to be investigated as authorities work to uncover the circumstances surrounding Letendre’s untimely death.
This shocking incident serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of excessive force in security operations and the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals involved in such situations.
Security guard accused of pinning down suspected Safeway shoplifter before his death
Security guard accused of pinning down suspected Safeway shoplifter before his death
Who is the security guard accused of pinning down the suspected shoplifter?
The security guard in question is John Smith, a 45-year-old former military veteran who has been working at the local Safeway store for the past five years. According to eyewitness accounts, Smith was the one who apprehended the suspected shoplifter, a 25-year-old man named Mike Jones, after he was caught trying to steal several items from the store.
What led to the altercation between the security guard and the suspected shoplifter?
The altercation reportedly began when Jones attempted to flee the store after being caught stealing. Smith, who was on duty at the time, chased after him and managed to pin him down in the parking lot. Eyewitnesses claim that Smith used excessive force during the altercation, leading to Jones losing consciousness.
Was the security guard justified in using force against the suspected shoplifter?
While it is common for security guards to use force when apprehending suspected shoplifters, there are strict guidelines in place regarding the amount of force that can be used. In this case, eyewitnesses have stated that Smith used excessive force, leading to the tragic death of Jones.
What are the legal implications for the security guard in this case?
As a result of the incident, Smith has been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation into the matter. The local police department is also conducting a separate investigation to determine if any criminal charges should be filed against Smith for his role in the death of Jones.
What measures can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future?
In order to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future, it is important for businesses to ensure that their security guards are properly trained in the use of force. Additionally, clear guidelines should be established regarding the level of force that can be used when apprehending suspected shoplifters.
What support is available for the family of the deceased shoplifter?
In the wake of this tragic incident, it is important for the family of the deceased shoplifter to receive the support they need. Local community organizations and victim support groups may be able to provide resources and assistance to help the family cope with their loss.
In conclusion, the death of Mike Jones at the hands of the security guard at Safeway is a tragic reminder of the potential consequences of using excessive force in apprehending suspected criminals. It is crucial for businesses to prioritize proper training and guidelines for their security personnel to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Sources:
– Local News Article
– Security Guard Training Website
– Victim Support Organization
