Transient justifies stealing Hy-Vee meal because “nobody eats the sushi anyway”

Lang
7/16/21
A transient faces charges that he stole a meal from a local grocery store because, he claims, nobody else wanted it.

Iowa City Police were called to the Waterfront Hy-Vee just after 3:45 Wednesday afternoon for a subject who had been previously trespassed eating at the Market Grill. Employees told arriving officers that 26-year-old Amos Lavela had taken some sushi and a can of Sparkling Ice into the dining area and consumed them without paying. The total value of the items was $19.40.

According to police, Lavela explained his actions by saying stealing “isn’t a big deal”, and that “nobody eats the sushi anyway.” He was charged with 5th Degree Theft and Trespassing.

Lavela was involved in a pair of incidents earlier this month in which he declined offers for help from police, including rides to anywhere in the city and help from social services, instead opting to go to jail.