Chaos at Target

Suspects apprehended at Lincoln South

On Wednesday, February 15, 2023, I was taking my weekly Target run at the Target on 56th Street. I checked out and went out to my car, when I saw two police vehicles belonging to the Lincoln Police Department parked behind a red sports car. As I was driving away, I saw two LPD officers standing outside the store. Why was there such a heavy police presence? I drove around near the front of the store. Out of my driver’s side window, I saw a man walk out of the store. 10 to 15 LPD officers drew their weapons and tackled the man as two more squad cars arrived at the scene. Leaving the chaos, I drove back to campus, wondering what in the world had just happened. I reached out to the LPD, and a few days later I got a response.

I connected with LPD Captain Todd Kocian who disclosed the following details about the incident: 

Two suspects, a man and a woman, were arrested that day. The pair was reported shoplifting from Lowe’s. Police tailed the two to Target and identified their vehicle, which was later found to be stolen. Police waited for the two to exit the store. The man walked out first and was arrested. A few minutes later, the woman exited the store and was arrested as well. The man was found to have been in possession of methamphetamine. The man was charged with theft and possession of an illegal substance. The woman was also charged with theft by receiving stolen property.

If there’s a lesson to be learned from this experience, it’s that crime can happen anytime and anywhere, even in places where you wouldn’t expect it. Luckily this time, the pair of thieves were caught and their joyride was brought to an end. It’s important to know how to protect yourself from crime and how to respond when you fall victim. Don’t hesitate to call 911 or, if you’re on campus, campus safety at (402) 486-2911 if you see anything suspicious. Be smart and stay safe.

By: Evan Majors