Absecon police arrested an Egg Harbor City man who allegedly robbed a Rite Aid drug store and was later found with drug paraphernalia.
Ronell Ruiz, 33, of Egg Harbor City, was charged with robbery, two counts of simple assault, possession of a syringe and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was transported to Atlantic County Jail on $50,000 cash bail.
Ruiz concealed $130 worth of merchandise in the store on the White Horse Pike and left without paying, police said. He also assaulted an assistant manager and another employee who confronted him, police said.
Ruiz fled down the White Horse Pike and members of the Absecon EMS spotted him. A search was conducted and Ruiz was found hiding behind the Absecon Veterinary Hospital by Det.Sgt. Robert Ponzetti, Ptl. Christian Cavileer and Ptl. Richard Huenke Jr.
Chief David K. Risley said Ruiz was found with two hypodermic syringes and one spoon with burnt white powder residue.
