Police: Accused Thieves Attack Bealls Worker

Article written and reported by Patch local editor Jeff Rosenfield. 

Two St. Petersburg residents are accused of attacking a department store employee as they tried to shoplift at Largo Mall last month, police said.

According to the police report, Carlton Covington and Casey Brianna Smith were attempting to steal property from the Bealls department store on June 26 by placing items in Smith's purse.
After they exited the store without paying, a loss prevention officer for Bealls attempted to stop the pair, Largo Police said.

During the melee, police said, Smith bit the officer on the neck and Covington struck the victim in the face while attempting to get away.

After being apprehended by Largo Police, officers found two watches and one set of earrings, valued at $70.85, in Smith's purse.

Authorities also found a screwdriver and an anti-shoplifting device on Covington's possession.

Both defendants admitted to the theft and battering the loss prevention officer after they were placed in custody. The officer reportedly suffered minor injuries.

Covington, 49, was arrested and charged with strong-armed robbery and possession of an anti-shoplifting device, both felonies, as well as misdemeanor simple battery.

He was also charged with failure to register as a sex offender stemming from a prior conviction for committing a lewd and lascivious act in the presence of a child under the age of 16. 

Smith, 22, was arrested and charged with felony strong-armed robbery and misdemeanor simple battery.

Jail records show Smith was released on bond on July 2. 

Covington, who has a number of arrests on his record, remains in jail awaiting trial, records show.