SPRINGFIELD — Two suspects were arrested Friday afternoon in connection with shoplifting at a Walmart store, with police seizing a loaded stolen firearm during the incident.
Springfield Police officers responded to the store on the 1100 block of Boston Road at approximately 1:25 p.m. after Walmart Asset Protection alerted an extra detail officer about two suspects skip-scanning items at self-checkout around 1:15 p.m.
The suspects, identified as Cedrick Simmons and Lizeida Reyes, were escorted to the Asset Prevention Office as they attempted to leave the store.
A Springfield Police officer assigned to the Neighborhood Stabilization Unit searched backpacks and bags carried by each suspect, discovering approximately 14 unpaid items between the two bags.
Officers also located a loaded firearm inside Simmons’ backpack that was reported stolen out of Connecticut.
Assisting officers arrived and both suspects were placed under arrest.
Simmons had an outstanding arrest warrant and previous gun and drug convictions.
Cedrick Simmons, 29, of Springfield, is charged with carrying a firearm without a license – 2nd offense, carrying a loaded firearm without a license – 2nd offense, possession of ammunition without an FID card – subsequent offense, convicted felon in possession of a firearm, firearm violation with 2 prior violent/drug crimes, receiving stolen property less than $1,200, and shoplifting by asportation.
Simmons also faces charges on an outstanding arrest warrant including failure to stop for police, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license – subsequent offense, speeding, and no inspection sticker.
Lizeida Reyes, 24, of Holyoke, is charged with shoplifting by asportation.
