Alleged toothpaste thief arrested

CHICOPEE, Mass., April 10 (UPI) -- Massachusetts police said they used security camera footage to identify a suspect accused of trying to steal a cartload of toothpaste from a store.

Police Sgt. Patrick Manley said Timmy John Laflamme, 23, of Chicopee, was arrested Monday after officers recognized him from security camera footage taken Wednesday afternoon at the Stop & Shop on North Main Street in Chicopee, The Springfield (Mass.) Republican reported Tuesday.

Manley said Laflamme was confronted by employees Wednesday when he allegedly tried to leave the store without paying for his cartful of toothpaste. Laflamme fled in a white Camry driven by a woman before officers arrived.

The sergeant said Laflamme was in the same Camry when he was arrested by officers Monday in the Bank of America parking lot across from the store.

Laflamme pleaded not guilty Monday to shoplifting by asportation. He was ordered held without bail due to having pending cases against him in Springfield.

Manley said the female driver has been identified by police and they are investigating possible charges against her.

Police said thieves often steal large quantities of products such as toothpaste to sell to small convenience stores.