Rome man arrested after North Utica Walmart larceny

UTICA, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) — After a two-week investigation, Utica Police say they have arrested a man who stole over a thousand dollars worth of electronics from the North Utica Wal-Mart.

Police say that on Friday, August 23, they responded to a larceny incident at the North Utica Wal-Mart. Upon their arrival, they spoke with employees who said that the suspect — 37-year-old Robert Vendura of Rome — walked out with over $1,300 worth of electronics. Employees say Vendura exited all points of purchase without paying for any of the electronics.

Based on the total value stolen, the case was assigned to the Utica Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Unit.

On Thursday, September 5, officers responded to the Hannaford Plaza on Mohawk Street in Utica regarding another larceny investigation. Officers recognized Vendura at the scene and attempted to stop him. A foot pursuit ensued, and Vendura was taken into custody after a short chase.

A subsequent search of Vendura’s person found a glass tube smoking device with suspected crack cocaine inside of it. Vendura was subsequently arrested and transported to the Utica Police Department.

Vendura is currently being charged with:

• Fourth-degree Grand Larceny, a Class E Felony,
• Petit Larceny, a Class A Misdemeanor,
• Resisting Arrest, a Class A Misdemeanor, and
• Seventh-degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, a Class A Misdemeanor.

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