THUNDER BAY - A local man who spat in the mouth of a loss prevention officer after being caught trying to steal merchandise from a local Walmart was scolded by a Thunder Bay judge on Monday for his “disgusting” behaviour.
Anthony Clemenza, 20, appeared in a Thunder Bay courtroom on Monday, March 16, to plead guilty to assault and theft charges following an incident at a city Walmart last year.
The court heard on March 11, 2019, members of the Thunder Bay Police Service responded to a 911 call made by staff at Walmart. Police received information that Clemenza was fighting with a loss prevention officer outside of the store after attempting to walk out of the store with more than $230 in merchandise.
The loss prevention officer detained Clemenza which resulted in a tussle between the two men. During the course of this, Clemenza suffered a split lip, Crown counsel said.
When Clemenza realized he was bleeding, he spat in the loss prevention officer’s mouth, Crown said.
He was eventually taken under control and held for police.
According to Clemenza's lawyer, George Joseph, his client has no previous criminal record and has a Grade 11 education. He also has an addiction problem with cocaine.
Clemenza has spent 64 days in custody. He received credit for the time he has already spent in jail which is to be followed by a 12 month probation period.
Justice Elaine Burton accepted the sentence submission presented but noted Clemenza’s behaviour was replusive, despite having issues with addiction.
“What you did is absolutely disgusting and there is no excuse for it,” Justice Burton said.
Part of his probation will require him to attend counselling for his addiction issues and bar him for attending any Walmart.
He is also required to submit his DNA into a national criminal database.
