A 23-year-old North Platte man has been charged with theft, after he was caught trying to steal items from a local business.

An officer with the North Platte Police Department responded to the report of a shoplifter at Menards, 4571 South Parkway Drive, at around 7:40 p.m., on May 14.

Store staff alleged that Shawn Reese was observed cutting open packaging in an attempt to steal a butane torch, fluid and an electric engraver.

According to Officer Rodney Brown, Reese saw the officer arrive, and attempted to flee out the back of the store.

The officer was able to stop Reese and locate the stolen merchandise in the lumber department.

Following further investigation, the officer determined that there was probable cause to arrest Reese for attempted theft by shoplifting.

Additionally, Reese had two active felony warrants in Lincoln County.

Reese was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center