(Michigan City, IN) - A man caught shoplifting in Michigan City fled, but was later apprehended by police with help from social media.

 

Patric Patterson, 36, of North Liberty, is facing a Level 6 felony charge of theft. He allegedly failed to pay for several food items when he walked past the self-check-out at Walmart in late December. He was escorted into the loss prevention office at the store, then fled when informed police were on their way, according to court documents. Police said investigators came across a Facebook photo of Patterson, who was identified by the loss prevention officer as the suspect in the image.

 

According to court records, Patterson was arrested last week after being served with an arrest warrant a few weeks after the alleged theft.

 

He is accused of walking out of the store with a package of sliced chicken breast, a box of crackers, mayonnaise, cheese, and French onion dip, valued at just over $18. 

 

Authorities said the charge was upgraded to a felony because Patterson had a prior conviction for theft.