Report: Springfield man says he stole because his dog’s hungry

A Springfield man is facing a robbery charge after he allegedly threatened a dollar store employee while stealing more than $200 worth of items.

Malik Thompson, 19, appeared in Clark County Municipal Court. He pleaded not guilty and his bond was set at $5,000.

Springfield police began their investigation Friday morning when they were dispatched to the Dollar General on Sunset in reference to a robbery, according to an affidavit filed with the charges. When they arrived, they saw Thompson pushing a shopping cart with consumable goods, according to the affidavit.

“As officers continued speaking with the male, he became increasingly agitated and irritable,” the affidavit says. “He accused officers of arresting him due to the fact that he is black and tried to justify stealing the items.”

Officers arrested Thompson, according to the affidavit, and he agreed to speak with them while in custody.

“Mr. Thompson advised that he had taken the items because he does not have a job and he and his dog have no food,” the affidavit says. “Officers could smell the odor of an alcoholic beverage on or about Mr. Thompson’s person. Mr. Thompson advised that he had consumed two drinks during the morning.”

The report doesn’t say what exactly was taken but does say they were valued at $226.

A store employee said that two workers attempted to stop Thompson before he left the store, but he said he needed the items for his children and dog. He also allegedly threatened to punch the workers if they didn’t let him go.

A next court date in the case has not been set.

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