Phoenix officer hospitalized after struggle with shoplifting suspect

PHOENIX — A shoplifting suspect is now facing charges of aggravated assault after a struggle resulted in an officer being hospitalized, according to officials with the Phoenix Police Department. 

An officer working off duty in full uniform contacted a man who was allegedly shoplifting inside a store near Baseline Road and 24th Street but the man tried to run, officials said. The officer chased him but the suspect refused to comply with commands, police said. 

During a struggle, the officer was pushed to the ground and suffered a serious leg injury, police said. The suspect ran from the store but was caught by responding officers, officials said. 

The injured officer was taken to a hospital, where he remains Saturday night, officials said. The suspect, 33-year-old Devontae Stockdale, was also taken to the hospital for minor injuries but has since been booked into jail, police said. 

You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12+ app! 

The free 12+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like “Today in AZ” and “12 News” and our daily lifestyle program, “Arizona Midday”—on Roku, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV. 

12+  showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona. 

Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives. 

Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for “12 News KPNX.” 

Amazon Fire TV: Search for “12 News KPNX” to find the free 12+ app to add to your account, or have the 12+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app.