Video shows shoplifting suspect hit loss prevention officer with car

ERLANGER, Ky. (WTVQ) – A dramatic video of a shoplifting suspect hitting a loss prevention officer while driving away from the Erlanger Home Depot is gaining nationwide attention.

A woman seen in the video, clinging to the roof of the car, is an undercover officer who chased the shoplifter outside and tried to stop him.

Surveillance video taken inside the store shows that the officer had her eye on the suspect, just as he grabbed a toolbox and ran from the store.

She runs after him, and that’s when police say she was hit by his car as he drove away, ending up on the hood.

In the video, the suspect stops the car abruptly, sending the security guard flying to the ground.  The suspect then backs up and takes off as several witnesses rush to help the woman.

“She looked like she knew he was up to no good and was really doing a good job,” says Sgt. John Sterling, with the Erlanger Police Department.  “I think at some point in time he realized it, so he paused and for whatever reason–the next time he thought he had to take advantage , he fled the store.”

Police say the plate on the car was obstructed and could not be read.

They say they are  searching for a silver Hyundai Accent.

The loss prevention officer suffered a concussion and a bruised hip.  She is recovering at University of Cincinnati Medical Center.