Staff report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Authorities took Ian Harrison Kennard, 33, into custody yesterday, following accusations of shoplifting merchandise worth hundreds, sometimes exceeding $1,000, from Walmart in five separate incidents shortly after the Christmas holiday.

On December 31, a Loss Prevention Officer (LPO) at the Butler Plaza Walmart alerted Gainesville Police Department (GPD) detectives about Kennard’s involvement in four “push-out” thefts since December 26. The officer reported that Kennard had stolen goods valued at $1,100 on December 31 alone. Typically, Kennard would park near the Garden Center entrance, load his cart with expensive items, and exit through the Garden Center when the staff were distracted, bypassing payment.

On January 2, LPOs once again informed a GPD detective of Kennard’s presence in the store. The detective observed as Kennard filled a cart with items totaling $576.09 and discreetly exited through the Garden Center door while the employee was not watching. An LPO intercepted Kennard, and police officers arrived promptly thereafter.

Following his apprehension, Kennard was taken to GPD Headquarters for questioning. After being read his Miranda rights, he allegedly confessed to the five thefts and additional incidents. According to his LinkedIn profile, Kennard holds an executive position with the U.S. Postal Service. When questioned about his motivations given his seemingly stable employment, Kennard revealed that he had been on unpaid leave for personal reasons since early September, which led to financial difficulties. He also admitted the acts were the result of “stupid decisions.”

Kennard has been charged with engaging in a scheme to defraud, engaging in organized retail theft with five incidents within 30 days, both felonies, and petit theft. He has no local criminal history, and Judge Phillip Pena set bail at $25,000.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.