CLARKSTON, WA – A man who had previously been trespassed from Walmart was arrested last week for allegedly entering the store and stealing merchandise, according to the Clarkston Police Department.

Benjamin Negrete, 39, was taken into custody in the early morning hours of May 19 in the 1300 block of Maple Street. The arrest followed a reported shoplifting incident that occurred on May 15 at the Clarkston Walmart.

According to a probable cause affidavit, officers were dispatched after store employees reported a man had allegedly left the store with a full shopping bag and no receipt. The suspect was later identified as Negrete, who had been formally trespassed from the location in April 2022.

Surveillance video reviewed by store personnel allegedly showed Negrete arriving around 4:44 p.m., parking in row 5, and entering the store. He was observed collecting various items—including razors and clothing—and placing them into a reusable shopping bag. He then attempted to leave through the garden center, which was locked, before exiting through the automotive section without paying.

The value of the merchandise was estimated at $101.30.

During a May 19 traffic stop, officers contacted Negrete and advised him of the alleged offenses. After being read his Miranda rights, Negrete admitted he had taken items during the incident and claimed he was struggling and trying to return to work in Spokane.

Negrete was arrested and booked into the Asotin County Jail on charges of burglary in the second degree and theft in the third degree. The case has been forwarded to the Asotin County Prosecutor’s Office for review.

No further details were released.