Hunter
11/09/23
An Iowa City man was arrested this week after allegedly stealing seafood from a grocery store.
Police say 57-year-old Eric Burgess of South Dodge Street was at the First Avenue HyVee at around 10:45am Monday and was reportedly observed by staff loading items into his grocery cart. Among the items were nearly $68 worth of lobster tails. When Burgess noticed he was being watched, he allegedly abandoned the cart and exited the store at a rapid pace.
Staff determined that they recovered all the items, except the lobster tails. They attempted to follow Burgess, who reportedly fled the scene in his vehicle.
Burgess was stopped about 15 minutes after the incident in his car, and allegedly told officers that he left all the items, including the seafood, in the cart at the store.
He was charged with 3rd degree Theft due to prior convictions. He faces up to two years in jail if convicted.