Minden Police arrested DeDarren M. Willis, 24, of the 100 block of Shane Drive on charges of battery on a police officer, misdemeanor theft of goods and resisting an officer with force. He was also arrested on a warrant for felony theft of goods.
Police Chief Steve Cropper says officers were looking for Willis on the warrant regarding a prior incident around 10 a.m. that morning at Walmart where he was confronted by Chief Deputy Bobby Igo Jr. Igo had been notified by asset protection at Walmart that Willis was reportedly stealing some items from the store.
“Loss prevention had seen Willis trying to conceal some items and by chance, Chief Igo was inside the store,” he said. “Igo made contact with Willis, and Willis was actively resisting Igo, who was in uniform, to the point where both individuals ended up on the ground.”
Cropper says Willis kicked Igo in the chest and shoulder area. During the struggle, Igo was able to pull Willis’ outer pants, containing the items he attempted to steal, off of him. Willis was able to get away from Igo and flee the store, he said.
The pants contained Willis’ identification card and two Playstation 4 controllers valued at around $120, the chief said.
“After the incident, we were notified and a warrant was obtained for his arrest,” Cropper said. “He was arrested about an hour and a half later when Det. Lt. Chris Cheatham, Sgt. Ryan Barnette and Capt. Marvin Garrett located him, made contact with him and placed him under arrest.”
Willis was transported to police headquarters and later transferred to Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.