Springfield Police recently made an arrest of two individuals involved in a shoplifting incident that turned into a significant weapons bust. On the afternoon of September 12, officers responded to a situation at a local Walmart where asset protection had detained two suspects identified as Cedrick Simmons and Lizeida Reyes for alleged skip-scanning, a method of theft involving the pretense of scanning merchandise without actual payment, according to Springfield Police Department's official release.
Investigating further, a Neighborhood Stabilization Unit officer assigned to the Walmart searched bags held by the suspects, finding 14 unpaid items split between their possessions. Authorities state that in the encompassing backpack of Simmons, a loaded firearm, later identified as stolen property from Connecticut, was discovered. Simmons and Reyes were soon placed under arrest by assisting officers who responded to the call.
Simmons, 29, from Springfield, faces a slew of charges including carrying and possession of a loaded firearm without license, illegal ammunition possession, being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, receiving stolen property, and shoplifting. Additionally, he was wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant for various traffic violations. Reyes, 24, from Holyoke, has been charged with shoplifting by asportation, as per the same news release.
Simmons, with previous convictions for gun- and drug-related charges, now faces enhanced penalties due to past violent and drug crime records. The Springfield Police Department outlined the litany of charges against the 29-year-old, underscoring the gravity of repeat offenses. Reyes was charged with a single count of shoplifting and was placed under arrest along with Simmons. The investigation is ongoing and further details will be made available as the situation develops.
