Grand Forks County (trfnews.i234.me) – A homeless man based in Grand Forks now faces a felony theft charge after a reported grocery store theft downtown.
According to a criminal complaint, the case involves Richard B. Harrington.
Court records list Harrington’s address as homeless in Grand Forks.
He is accused of taking bags of food from a downtown grocery store and leaving without paying.
The incident happened on December 1.
The complaint says Harrington entered the store and filled two shopping bags.
Items reportedly included candy bars, energy drinks, and hot food.
Investigators say he then left the business with both bags.
Store staff told police that no payment was made at the checkout.
Court documents place the total value of the items at $80.98.
That amount normally would not create a felony by itself.
However, the complaint notes Harrington’s history of theft cases.
Records list three prior misdemeanor shoplifting convictions.
Those earlier cases now allow this new incident to be charged as a felony.
Richard B. Harrington is accused of taking food from a downtown Grand Forks grocery store.
Prosecutors in Grand Forks County have now charged Harrington with felony theft.
The charge is based on the value of the goods and his prior convictions.
More information on North Dakota theft laws is available in the North Dakota Century Code.
Felony theft charges can lead to prison time and fines if a person is convicted.
Penalties can depend on the value of the property and the record.
General guidance on felony levels and sentencing can be found through the North Dakota Department of Corrections victim resources.
The case against Harrington will move through Grand Forks County District Court.
Future hearings and filings will appear on the North Dakota Courts’ public search site.
That site lists upcoming court dates and case updates.
Retailers often remind shoppers that even small thefts can lead to serious charges.
Information on shoplifting prevention and store security is available from national crime prevention groups.
At this stage, Richard B. Harrington is presumed innocent.
He remains innocent unless and until he is found guilty in court.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
