Face Recognition Software Leads WPD To Man Wanted for Shoplifting

WARWICK, RI  — A Cranston man recorded on video stealing 11 pieces of clothing from the Warwick Mall Macy’s worth $723 didn’t stop for Officer Matthew Carradimos Oct. 24 while driving away, but facial recognition software helped police catch up to him in Sixth District Court in Providence Jan. 14.

On Oct. 24 at 2:17 p.m., Officers Ryan Shibley and Carradimos were called to Warwick Mall, for  a reported shoplifting in progress, but were unable to apprehend the alleged shoplifter, who left in an old silver station wagon driven by a woman. Carradimos attempted to stop the car, but the driver didn’t heed him and it left the parking lot, headed north on Bald Hill Road toward Cranston, Shibley reported.

The lead detective at Macy’s said she’d seen the man near the north door of the store, wearing a black sweat shirt and black sweat pants and tan work boots, take 11 mens clothing items from the store and leave without paying before meeting up with the woman in the station wagon. The officers decided not to pursue the pair out of concern for public safety, according to the report.

On Oct. 29, Officder Adam Arico was able to use video footage of the man to identify him with facial recognition software. Using that information, Warwick Police issued an arrest warrant on a felony shoplifting charge for Johnathan Beharry, 34, of 840 Cranston St., Apt. 3, Cranston.

On Jan. 14 at about 12:09 p.m., Officer Kyle Fitzsimmons was called to Sixth District Court at 250 Benefit St., to pick up Beharry, who was answering charges in a separate case.

Fitzsimmons transported Beharry to Warwick Police Headquarters, 99 Veterans Memorial Drive, where he was processed on a felony shoplifting charge and was held for his next appearance in Third District Court.