Arizona officer arrested, accused of shoplifting at Walmart

SHOW LOW, Ariz. – An eastern Arizona officer is finding herself on the other side of the law after allegedly shoplifting while on-duty at a Show Low Walmart.

What we know:

The alleged incident happened just after 4 p.m. on Oct. 6 at the store near White Mountain and Show Low Lake Roads. According to the Show Low Police Department, 37-year-old Melissa Ward hid multiple items inside a black tote, went to self-checkout and paid for the tote, but not for the items inside.

Police say a Walmart loss prevention employee followed her throughout the store and witnessed her concealing the items inside the tote. The items totaled about $70.

Ward is an officer with the White Mountain Apache Police Department. Police say she was on-duty when the alleged incident happened. Ward has been placed on administrative leave. 

What they’re saying:

“The White Mountain Apache Police Department holds its officers to the highest standards of conduct, both on and off duty,” the department said. “The alleged behavior is a serious matter and does not reflect the values of this department. We are committed to a full and transparent process.”

Map of the Walmart