Dec. 27, 2025 — Redmond, Wash. Redmond police officers responded to a shoplifting-in-progress call at a local Target store, detaining a homeless man found with stolen clothing and an outstanding theft warrant.
The man explained he took a jacket and snow pants because he was freezing while living on the streets, prompting officers to purchase him new warm clothing using funds from the BlueBridge Alliance before his transport to booking, despite emphasizing that theft charges would proceed in court.
The Redmond, WA Police Department detailed the incident in a Facebook video post on Dec. 30, 2025, which has garnered over 861,000 views.
During the detention outside the store, the unidentified man also reported a painful hand infection, stating his prescribed antibiotics had been stolen. Redmond Fire medics assessed the injury at the scene and transported him to a hospital for treatment.
Knowing the man would likely be released back into cold conditions, officers bought the jacket and snow pants for him before further transport.
While officers made it clear that theft is still illegal and the case will proceed in court, this moment highlights an important balance of holding people accountable and recognizing their immediate human needs.
FOX 13 Seattle reported on Jan. 2, 2026, that body camera footage captured an officer stating they did not want the man “freezing to death.” MyNorthwest covered the story on Dec. 31, 2025, highlighting the officers’ act of kindness amid freezing temperatures.
KING5 shared additional bodycam video showing an officer handing the clothing to the suspect. The story has spread virally on social media platforms including Instagram, TikTok, Reddit, and YouTube, with reposts from outlets like The Independent and FOX 26 Houston.
