Caught in the act as man busted mid-heist inside DC convenience store

A would-be thief’s midnight haul came to a halt when officers found him still inside the store.
Caught in the act as man busted mid-heist inside DC convenience store
Quick Arrest Made in Northwest D.C. Robbery Attempt WASHINGTON, DC - Following a Northwest robbery attempt, D.C. Metro Police Department’s Third District detectives have swiftly apprehended a suspect. The incident occurred today around 2:53 PM, in the 1200 block of W Street, Northwest. The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Lenare Leath, Jr. of Northwest D.C., allegedly brandished a knife and pushed the victim to the ground in an attempt to steal their property. After a struggle, the suspect fled empty-handed but was quickly caught by responding officers. The victim sustained minor injuries and was taken to a local hospital. Leath has been charged with Assault with Intent to Commit Robbery. Photo 107991078 | Arrest © Oleg Dudko | Dreamstime.com

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A late-night break-in at a Northwest convenience store ended abruptly when officers arrived to find the suspect still inside with stolen items in hand.

Key Points

  • Suspect broke into convenience store on Georgia Avenue around 1:15 a.m.
  • Officers found the suspect still inside with stolen merchandise
  • 58-year-old Earnest Luck charged with second-degree burglary

Burglary interrupted by swift police response

The incident occurred early Tuesday morning at a store in the 6200 block of Georgia Avenue NW. According to the Metropolitan Police Department, the suspect pried open the store’s rear entrance before taking multiple items.

Officers arrived on scene shortly after the break-in began and found the suspect inside the store, still in possession of the merchandise he allegedly stole.

Suspect identified and charged

The man was identified as 58-year-old Earnest Luck of Northwest, D.C. He was taken into custody without incident and has been charged with Burglary in the Second Degree.

No injuries were reported and all stolen items were recovered at the scene.

Ongoing efforts against property crime

This arrest adds to MPD’s continued efforts to combat property crimes across the District. The department did not release additional information about the items taken or the specific store involved.