Burlington Coat Factory targeted by shoplifter, many times

The Burlington Coat Factory shoplifter focused primarily on men’s wear but also took some children’s clothes over a two month period.

Richland County authorities say the suspect, Michael Purnell, 47, was identified from surveillance video at the big discount clothing store located at 7201 Two Notch Road.

He is accused of stealing 28 men’s shirts, 3 men’s hoodies, 33 pair of men’s jeans, 2 pair of men’s Nike sneakers, 3 pair of other men’s shoes, 7 pair of men’s shorts, 6 kid’s shirts and 5 pair of kids pants in seven visits between February 4 and March 29. In all, authorities estimate the value of the men’s wardrobe and kids clothes at more than $2,000.

If you have information on the whereabouts of Michael Purnell you are asked to call CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC, text CRIMES (274637) and mark the beginning of the message with “TIPSC” followed by the tip information, or log onto www.midlandscrimestoppers.com and click on the red “Submit a tip” tab.

This story was originally published April 7, 2016 at 4:31 PM with the headline "Burlington Coat Factory targeted by shoplifter, many times."