The Tangipahoa Sheriff’s Office assisted in an unusual shoplifting arrest Saturday at the grand opening of a new Tractor Supply store in Ponchatoula. Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says 35-year-old Theresa Prine was confronted by the store owner for trying to leave without paying when hooved heroes Caddy and Yella took notice.
“As she started running on foot, our Mounted Division realized it was happening and decided to chase after her on hoof, if you will. They were able to stop her from running, and were able to detain her,” Rodrigue said.
The shoplifter was detained until the Ponchatoula Police Department arrived. The woman was issued a summons for Felony Theft after determining her cart contained over $1,200 worth of merchandise. Rodrigue says the pursuit was over as soon as it began.
“It was a matter of seconds before she was surrounded and realized that it was not a good idea to continue to try to battle with those large animals,” Rodrigue said.
Rodrigue says the Mounted Division was stationed at the opening to be a positive presence, as they are at many public events, but these officers are more than just a long, pretty faces. She says they specialize in crowd control and pursuit.
“Certainly, being able to show that having our Mounted Division out is not just for show, that it is actually a resource, a
crime-fighting and crime prevention resource that is effective,” Rodrigue said.
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