Staff report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Authorities took Shirley Ann Williams, 67, into custody yesterday, accusing her of taking merchandise valued at $400 from Walmart. She reportedly intended to sell these items at reduced rates to cover her expenses.

On September 22, around 1:01 p.m., an officer from the Gainesville Police Department arrived at the Walmart located on Northeast 12th Avenue (1800 NE 12th Avenue). Williams allegedly picked up 24 items totaling $401.22 and left without making a purchase. She was stopped by a Loss Prevention Officer who then took her to their office.

After being read her rights, Williams allegedly confessed that individuals on the streets pay her to steal from Walmart, although she couldn’t identify them due to lack of familiarity. She apparently mentioned that she memorizes the requested items, steals them, and then sells them at half the price to manage her financial obligations.

Williams is being charged with felony petit theft due to having two or more prior convictions. Her record includes 13 non-violent felony convictions and 18 non-violent misdemeanor convictions. She is also facing a shoplifting charge from July. Williams has previously served a state prison sentence, getting released in 1994. Judge Sheree Lancaster granted her release on personal recognizance.

Information about arrests comes from law enforcement reports. The charges mentioned are based on the arrest reports and/or court documents, and are solely allegations. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.