Police say a 35-year-old West Roxbury man turned a Dedham gas station into a trouble magnet on Saturday, allegedly assaulting two employees in separate incidents and then stealing a customer's car from the pumps before the day was over. Dedham officers were called to Sam's Express multiple times across the day, first in the morning, then in the late afternoon, and again after the late-night theft. During the first encounter, authorities say a customer stepped in, got involved and escorted the man out of the store before officers arrived.
According to WCVB, officers initially responded to Sam's Express at 2 Washington St. around 9:09 a.m. for a report that a man had entered the store and assaulted an employee. The outlet reports police were called back later in the day when a second assault was reported, and investigators believed the same suspect was involved in all three incidents tied to the location.
Arrest, Charges and Stolen Car Recovery
An arrest warrant was obtained Sunday charging the suspect with two counts of assault and battery, trespassing and larceny of a motor vehicle, according to NBC Boston. The report states Boston police identified and arrested John Laurent, 35, at his West Roxbury residence, then transferred him to the Dedham Police Department for processing. Officers later located the stolen vehicle in the area of 4975 Washington St. in West Roxbury, and Laurent is expected to appear in Dedham District Court on Monday.
What Locals Should Keep In Mind
The unusual sequence of two store assaults followed by a late-night car theft at the pumps is a reminder for drivers to stay close to their vehicles while paying, or lock the doors if they need to step away even briefly. Gas station workers and customers are urged to call 911 right away if they feel threatened and, when it is safe to do so, try to note details such as clothing, physical features or direction of travel that can help officers track down a suspect.
Investigation Still Active
Dedham police say the investigation remains active and that additional details were not immediately available, according to Boston 25 News. Local authorities are asking anyone with information or video from the area around Sam's Express to contact the Dedham Police Department.
