Accused shoplifter arrested after scuffle

Columbus police scuffled with an accused shoplifter and used an electroshock weapon before making an arrest at a local store over the weekend.

Police were sent to the 700 block of Whitfield Drive at 8:40 p.m. Friday about a shoplifting suspect who needed to be positively identified, said Lt. Matt Harris, Columbus Police Department spokesman.

The officers confirmed the suspect’s identity as Dustin L. Denson, 26, Columbus and also determined he had a warrant for his arrest out of Shelby County, Harris said.

When officers attempted to arrest Denson, a scuffle ensued and Denson attempted to flee from the store, Harris said. After using the electroshock weapon, Denson was secured in handcuffs and transported to the Bartholomew County Jail on preliminary charges of battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting law enforcement and the warrant.

For more on this story, see Tuesday’s Republic.