The Summerville Police Department investigated a reported shoplifting incident at the Dollar General located at Commerce Street and Kelly Street after a store employee reported seeing a man allegedly conceal merchandise and leave without paying.

According to an incident report from the Summerville Police Department, Officer Brandon Lindsey responded to the store on August 7, 2026, and met with store employee Mr. Allen Wells.

The report states that Wells provided surveillance video for the officer to review. While watching the footage, Officer Lindsey reported seeing a male identified as Andrew Burse select a grocery item from an aisle and conceal it in the front of his pants.

According to the report, Burse then allegedly selected a second grocery item and concealed it in the rear of his pants before leaving the business without paying for the items.

Officer Lindsey asked whether the store wanted to pursue criminal charges. According to the report, Wells said he needed to consult with the store manager before making that decision. Wells reportedly indicated that management would likely request a criminal trespass warning against Burse rather than prosecution.

During the investigation, Officer Campbell located Burse near Circle K on Marvin Avenue. Lindsey then met with Burse and spoke with him about the incident.

According to the police report, Burse admitted taking two items from Dollar General without paying. The report states that Burse told officers he was hungry, had recently been released from jail, lacked a support system and was attempting to secure employment at Burger King.

Police advised Burse that he was not permitted to return to the Dollar General pending the business’s decision. Officers also told him law enforcement would follow up after store management determined whether it wanted to pursue charges or issue a formal criminal trespass notice.