WHITERIVER-A White Mountain Apache Police Department officer has been arrested after allegedly shoplifting while on duty at a Walmart in Show Low earlier this week.
According to the Show Low Police Department, Officer Melissa Ward, 37, was taken into custody on October 6 after store employees reported a theft involving a uniformed law enforcement officer. Investigators say Ward, who was wearing her police uniform and carrying her duty firearm, allegedly concealed multiple items inside a black tote bag, paid for the tote at a self-checkout, and left the store without scanning or paying for the concealed merchandise. The stolen items were valued at approximately $70, police said.
Yesterday, the department issued a press release.
Ward was arrested at the scene without incident and later booked into the Navajo County Jail. She faces a misdemeanor charge of shoplifting.
In a statement, the White Mountain Apache Police Department confirmed Ward’s arrest and said she has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
“The alleged behavior is unacceptable and does not reflect the integrity or values of this department,” the statement read. “We hold our officers to the highest standards of conduct and are fully cooperating with the Show Low Police Department to ensure transparency and accountability.”
The case has been referred to the Navajo County Attorney’s Office for review and possible prosecution.
The White Mountain Apache Police Department, based in Whiteriver, serves Tribal Land and often works alongside other agencies in the region.
Authorities say no further details will be released until the investigation is complete.
