By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
A North Carolina man was arrested after a string of theft-related incidents across multiple businesses in Hays.
Hays Deputy Police Chief Tim Greenwood said 26-year-old Austin Jacob Smith allegedly stole a 33-round handgun magazine about 10:20 a.m. July 12 from American Shooters, 2503 Vine St.
Greenwood said Smith was identified through American Shooters’ surveillance footage. Officers patrolled the area and spoke to local businesses in search of Smith.
Officers went to Home Depot, 1310 E. 41st St., where a manager reported that the same individual had allegedly attempted to use counterfeit money to purchase tools.
At 1:30 p.m. on July 13, a report from someone officers had previously spoken with led them to respond to Walgreens at 2600 Vine St.
Greenwood said Smith was allegedly in the act of stealing items when officers approached. Smith allegedly tried to flee and battered an officer in the process.
Greenwood said Smith was found in possession of the allegedly stolen magazine from American Shooters and a handgun reportedly stolen from another individual.
Smith was arrested on requested charges of theft of a firearm, theft of property from three businesses within 72 hours, criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, criminal use of a weapon or possession by a person addicted to a controlled substance, criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement and DUI-drugs.
Smith was booked into the Ellis County Jail. The officer who was battered has since returned to duty.