Benton Police Department responded to the Shell gas station at approximately 3:40 a.m. Feb. 28 on the north service road in reference to a business alarm. A witness spotted a white male, later identified as 18-year-old Joseph Carter, running from the scene. After a brief search of the area and foot pursuit, officers took Carter into custody without incident.
Carter was found to be in possession of stolen property, including a TV and Xbox previously reported as stolen. He was also found to be in possession of a controlled substance (Xanax) and cigarettes stolen from the gas station. A cash register was taken from the store but was located nearby with all money inside.
Upon being booked at the Saline County Jail, Carter was charged with Commercial Burglary, Criminal Mischief 1st Degree, Theft of Property, Fleeing, Possession of a Controlled Substance IV and Theft by Receiving.
The investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be forthcoming.
BNPD asks that anyone with information about this incident or related incidents contact the department at 501-778-1171 or 501-315-TIPS. Anonymous tips may also be sent via text to CRIMES (274637) with the keyword BNPD in the body of the message, via the official Benton Police Department app available on iTunes and Google Play or at www.crimereports.com.