A 65-year-old Minneapolis man has been charged in Anoka County with felony theft after deputies say he stuffed more than $1,700 worth of merchandise into a jacket and walked out of a Walmart store in Andover without paying.
Theft Caught on Surveillance Video
According to the criminal complaint filed on October 13, 2025, Timothy Lee Richardson was arrested after deputies responded to a reported theft in progress at Walmart, 1851 Bunker Lake Blvd NW, around October 12, 2025.
Store asset protection employees had been monitoring security footage and identified Richardson as the individual concealing store merchandise in a tan jacket. Deputies arriving at the scene reviewed the surveillance video, which showed Richardson placing multiple items inside his jacket and exiting the store without attempting to pay.
After leaving the store, Richardson allegedly discarded the tan jacket under a vehicle in the parking lot. Deputies recovered the jacket and found it contained stolen goods valued at approximately $1,751, according to the report.
Felony Theft Charge Filed
Prosecutors charged Richardson with Theft—Taking or Using Movable Property Without Consent (Value $1,001–$5,000), a felony under Minnesota Statute 609.52.2(a)(1). The charge carries a potential penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 if convicted.
Judge Karin McCarthy signed an order of detention, finding probable cause for the charge and ordering that Richardson remain in custody pending further court proceeding.
Prior Record and Ongoing Detention
Court records indicate that Richardson’s fingerprints matched an existing criminal history file, confirming prior contact with law enforcement. He was booked at the Anoka County Jail and remained in custody as of October 15.
The court’s case scheduling sheet lists Richardson as “in custody—sign today, appear Tuesday AM,” indicating an expedited first appearance before the district court.
Retail Theft Concerns in Anoka County
The Andover Walmart, located near Hanson Boulevard and Bunker Lake, has been the site of several retail theft investigations this year. Law enforcement officials have noted an increase in high-dollar theft cases involving suspects attempting to conceal merchandise in clothing or bags before leaving the premises.
Under Minnesota law, theft of property exceeding $1,000 in value is prosecuted as a felony, even in cases involving a single retail establishment.
What Comes Next
Richardson is expected to make his initial court appearance this week, where bail or conditional release terms will be determined. If convicted, sentencing could include restitution to Walmart and possible state prison time.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This report is based solely on verified facts contained in an Anoka County District Court criminal complaint filed October 13, 2025
