People v. Bryant CA4/3

STATEMENT OF FACTS AND PROCEDURAL HISTORY

On June 25, 2016, Nicholas Rivas-Lopez, a loss prevention officer (LPO), observed two individuals enter a Target store in Orange County. Rivas-Lopez recognized the individuals from a LPO internal communication warning of recent liquor thefts in various stores. He observed them on the video surveillance system from within the LPO office. The parties later stipulated that Rivas-Lopez identified Bryant as one of the suspects. Rivas- Lopez watched as Bryant and his companion filled a shopping cart with $534.38 worth of liquor. After monitoring the surveillance footage, Rivas-Lopez left his office and contacted the suspects. He identified himself as a LPO and told them he would call the police if they exited the store without paying. Bryant then turned towards Rivas-Lopez and threatened to stab him if he followed

2 them out of the store. When Bryant made this threat, he placed his hand in his pocket. Rivas-Lopez stepped back out of fear for his safety, returned to the LPO office, and called the police. Bryant and his accomplice exited the store without paying for the merchandise, and left in a red or burgundy sedan. A few weeks later, on July…