A man was apprehended by Riviera Beach police on Sunday night after he was found riding a bicycle without a light and suspected of stealing audio merchandise worth $42,000 from a local business.

Observation and Pursuit

According to a news release by Riviera Beach police spokesperson Serena Spates, the incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday. Members of the agency’s vice unit spotted a man, later identified as Melvin Clark, riding his bicycle in the 1200 block of Australian Avenue. The officers noticed that Clark did not have a light on his bicycle, which is required by law for safety reasons.

As the officers approached Clark, he evaded them by swiftly maneuvering between the 1300 and 1500 blocks of Australian Avenue. Eventually, he attempted to conceal himself in the 1300 block of West 15th Street, where he was ultimately apprehended by the police.

Stolen Merchandise Recovery

Upon arresting Clark, law enforcement officers discovered that he was carrying approximately $6,600 worth of stolen merchandise from XPO Logistics, located at 1301 W. 15th St. The merchandise was identified as audio-related items.

Further investigation revealed that Clark had gained access to the secured premises of XPO Logistics by cutting through the gate. Once inside, he targeted a locked trailer containing the valuable audio merchandise, which he successfully burglarized.

Criminal Background and Charges

Melvin Clark, the perpetrator of this audacious theft, has an extensive criminal history. As a result of his actions, he now faces multiple charges, including burglary and grand theft.

Legal Proceedings

Following his arrest, Clark was promptly taken to the Palm Beach County Jail. On Monday, his bail was set at $15,500, reflecting the severity of the crimes he stands accused of committing.

The authorities are determined to hold Clark accountable for his actions, and he will face legal proceedings in the coming days. If convicted, he could be subject to significant penalties, including imprisonment and fines.

Conclusion

The swift response and diligent efforts of the Riviera Beach police led to the arrest of Melvin Clark, preventing further losses for XPO Logistics. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to safety regulations and the consequences that await those who attempt to engage in criminal activities.

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