Police

Cops: Man who threatened Kmart worker arrested on gun charge

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A 22-year-old suspected shoplifter who threatened the use of a gun at Kmart in Riverhead was found nearby with a loaded handgun Saturday, town police said. 

image013Gage Johnson of Medford was suspected of shoplifting a computer charger along with an unidentified woman by a loss prevention employee at the Route 58 store shortly after 5 p.m. Saturday, police said. When they were approached, Mr. Johnson allegedly threatened the use of a gun and fled the area in a vehicle.

Police say they found the vehicle in the nearby Target parking lot and located a loaded 9mm handgun inside.

Mr. Johnson, who previously served 30 days in county jail on an endangering the welfare of a child conviction, told Judge Richard Ehlers he is currently unemployed and living with his mother.

Mr. Johnson was charged with third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, unlawful possession of marijuana and petit larceny, police said. The judge set bail at $2,500 and ordered him back in court Monday.