Shoplifter arrested after returning to the scene

A shoplifter who nearly avoided apprehension returned to the scene as police were documenting the theft.

The suspect, later identified as 49-year-old Vestavia Hills resident Mark Alan Webb, was seen on video surveillance stealing a chain saw and leaf blower from the Walmart on U.S. 280 around noon on Aug. 8. Webb left before loss prevention employees were able to find him in the parking lot.

Hoover PD responded to document the theft, and Webb returned to the store as an officer was finishing the report in his patrol vehicle. Around 12:45 p.m., Webb was reportedly seen taking a weed eater and another leaf blower. Loss prevention employees were able to apprehend him when he exited the store.

Police returned to the store, arrested Webb and transported him to Hoover City Jail. The items, valued at $574, were recovered. Detectives obtained a felony arrest warrant for second degree theft of property on Aug. 10, and Webb was transferred to Shelby County Jail. Bond is set at $5,000.

Webb has an “extensive criminal history,” police report, which dates back 23 years and includes at least 15 arrests.