Trespassed Suspect Returns to Steal
Spokane Valley Deputies arrested 33-year-old Michael J. Welp after Walmart employees contacted him for attempting to leave the store without paying items concealed in his backpack. After learning Welp had been trespassed from the store, he was charged with Burglary 2nd Degree and Theft 3rd.
On December 4, 2016 at approximately 4:10 p.m., Deputies responded to Walmart and contacted store loss prevention employees at 5025 E. Sprague in Spokane Valley.
The employee stated she was advised by Home Depot loss prevention Welp was in the area of the stores and they provided his description and the vehicle he was in. She explained Welp has returned to the store several times since he was trespassed and appears to know if he gets in and out quickly, he doesn’t get caught.
She observed Welp enter Walmart carrying a green backpack. Welp walked into the Sporting Goods section, pick up three packages and continue down the aisle. Assisted by her managers, she contacted Welp as he headed for the exit doors without paying. Welp yelled and caused a disturbance as he was detain and escorted to the loss prevention office.
Deputy Zlateff advised Welp of his rights and Welp said he understood and agreed to answer questions. Welp stated he sells the merchandise he steals to get money to support himself and his girlfriend. Welp apologized for being in the store but did not appear to be remorseful for his actions during the contact and would not provide information regarding the vehicle he arrived in or who was driving it.
Two hand warmers, two ParaHatchets and one knife were found in Welp’s backpack and returned to Walmart employees.
Welp was transported and booked into the Spokane County Jail for Burglary 2nd Degree and Theft 3rd Degree.