Three Arrested in Fairhaven For Alleged Shoplifting, Nearly Running Over Pedestrian

FAIRHAVEN — Three people are under arrest after police catch a suspected shoplifter and the driver of the alleged getaway vehicle nearly struck a pedestrian while trying to flee from authorities in a stolen vehicle.

Just before noon time Monday afternoon, Fairhaven Police Detectives observed a male party leave Stop & Shop with a carriage full of groceries without paying for the items. As the shoplifter approached a waiting vehicle, which was occupied by two females, officers approached the trio and identified themselves as police.

The operator of the vehicle, later identified as 35-year-old Catherine Holmes of 17 Waldo Street in New Bedford, immediately sped away in the vehicle, nearly striking a pedestrian as she fled.

Holmes led police on a pursuit eastbound on Route 6 towards Mattapoisett. She finally stopped on Route 6 just before Jeannette Street, where she was taken into custody without incident. Holmes, who was operating a motor vehicle that was stolen from Rhode Island, was charged with assault by means of a dangerous weapon for almost running over the pedestrian in the parking lot; negligent operation of a motor vehicle; operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license; failing to stop for police; possession of a stolen motor vehicle; and an outstanding arrest warrant for assault and battery.

The male party was identified as 31-year-old Andre Guinier of 8 Sandy Road in Wareham. He was charged with shoplifting merchandised valued at over $100, and for an outstanding arrest warrant for shoplifting.

The second involved female was identified as 31-year-old Briana Raponi of 2796 Cranberry Highway in Wareham. She was with possession of a stolen motor vehicle and an outstanding arrest warrant for motor vehicle offenses.

All three were booked at the Fairhaven Police Department and transported to New Bedford District Court for arraignment.

--Fairhaven Police