Crime & Safety

Eagan Police: Suspect Caught with Stolen Shoes—In His Pants

Michael Thomas Connors, 72, was arrested last Friday after an incident at an Eagan retail store.

A 72-year-old St. Paul man faces a felony charge after he allegedly tried to smuggle two pairs of shoes out of Kohl's by concealing them in his pants.

Michael Thomas Connors is charged with possession of shoplifting gear, a felony punishable by up to three years in prison and $5,000 in fines. He also faces one lesser charge for attempted theft. 

On Aug. 30 at 1:42 p.m. officers with the Eagan Police Department were dispatched to Town Centre Drive on report of shoplifting in progress. Loss prevention employees told police that Connors had stolen numerous pairs of shoes on Aug. 28, but they had not stopped him at the time. 

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Two days later, Connors came back to the store. He was seen taking numerous items and placing them in the cart, including shoes and shirts. Then he disappeared into the young men's fitting rooms with a variety of items in "a manner which suggested he was attempting to conceal them." 

When apprehended, officers found two pairs of shoes in Connors' pants, secured to his belt by the laces. Upon further inspection, it was discovered that Connors was wearing three shirts, as well. Connors allegedly used a wire cutter to clip the security tags off. 

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All in all, police say he was caught with over $300 worth of merchandise. 

Connors remains in custody at the Dakota County Jail, held on a $60,000 bond ($30,000 with conditions). His next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 24.


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