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Florida City, FL - A 70-year-old man was arrested after a shoplifting attempt escalated into a standoff at a Florida City Walmart, where he allegedly held a loss prevention officer hostage with a stolen firearm.
According to Local 10 News, Florida City Police responded to reports of a shoplifting incident at the Walmart Supercenter located at 33501 South Dixie Highway on Saturday, December 7th around 12:15 p.m.
The suspect, identified as James Hackler of Coconut Grove, was observed by a loss prevention associate concealing merchandise and attempting to exit the store without payment.
When confronted, Hackler reportedly brandished a stolen gun and forced the unarmed loss prevention officer into a back room, barricading themselves inside.
Officers arrived promptly and engaged in a tense 20-minute standoff.
During this time, Hackler allegedly threatened the hostage, warning her not to move or he would shoot.
The situation concluded without physical harm when officers successfully negotiated Hackler's surrender.
He was taken into custody on charges of armed kidnapping, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and theft.
Authorities continue to investigate the origins of the firearm used in Saturday's incident.