California man accused of stealing from a Wichita Falls Walmart goes back for his Bible

Claire Kowalick | Wichita

A California man accused of trying to steal several items from a local Walmart reportedly returned to the scene to retrieve his Bible.

Joshua Jeroma Wilhoit, 27, of Dana Point, Calif., was arrested and charged with theft of property valued at more than $100 but less than $750 – a Class B misdemeanor.

Wilhoit was in the Wichita County Jail as of Thursday afternoon in lieu of $500 bail.

According to the probable cause affidavit:

Around 9:58 p.m., officers were called to the Walmart at 3100 Lawrence Road.

The reporting party said a male suspect left the store wearing a black long-sleeve shirt and black shorts.

The man returned while police were en route and was trying to grab an item from a bag of items he allegedly had attempted to steal.

He was able to get by the reporting party to retrieve his Bible and left toward Panda Express.

Once on scene, officers observed a man matching the description given walking by the restaurant.

When they tried to stop him, the man took off running south toward Call Field Road.

He ran behind several stores before jumping the fence to the transfer station. He jumped a second fence and disappeared into the thick wooded area.

Officers surrounded the area and were able to locate the man after a short search. The man was transported back to Walmart, where he was identified as Wilhoit.

Walmart employees told police that Wilhoit was seen walking around the store placing items into a bag. He then reportedly walked to the front of the store and past all points of sale.

The employees stopped Wilhoit to confront him about the possible theft.

The items taken in the bag included assorted clothing, food and electronics. The total value of all of the items was $108.32.

A records check revealed Wilhoit did not have any prior theft convictions.