Accused shoplifter leaves cell phone behind

Aurora police say they used a cell phone left at the scene to identify and secure charges against a Chicago woman accused of pepper spraying a shopping center security guard.

Laporsha Holloway, 21, of 6651 S. Claremont Ave., has been charged with two counts of aggravated battery, unlawful use of a detection shielding device and retail theft.

Police still are looking for the woman, who is believed to be in Chicago.

Police say Holloway tried to make off with about $2,300 worth of clothing on Aug. 2 from the True Religion store inside Chicago Premium Outlets in the 1600 block of Premium Outlets Boulevard.

When Holloway left the business, security sensors triggered the store's alarm. When a 55-year-old guard tried to stop Holloway, she dropped a cellular telephone on which she had been talking and repeatedly sprayed the guard. She then dropped the merchandise and ran away.

"It's not unusual for police to use cell phones to cultivate leads against suspects," police spokesman Dan Ferrelli said. "In this case it was nice to get the cell phone of the alleged offender."

The security guard was treated and released at an Aurora hospital.

Anyone with information on Holloway's whereabouts is asked to call Aurora police at (630) 801-6655 or Aurora Area Crime Stoppers at (630) 892-1000. Callers to Crime Stoppers are anonymous and qualify for a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to her arrest.