Shoplifter tried to disguise merchandise as groceries, police say

$1,500 worth of merchandise found in grocery bags

MADISON, Wis. — A woman tried to steal more than $1,500 in merchandise from a store by hiding it in grocery bags on Friday, according to a release from Madison police.

Police said Laurie S. Blanchard, 54, of Blue River, brought a cart from a grocery store into Macy at Hilldale Mall and loaded grocery bags with stolen jewelry, purses and other items. A security guard spotted Blanchard and stopped her after she passed the checkouts.

Blanchard was arrested on suspicion of retail theft.