According to a report by the Crossville Police Department, on March 27, 2026, officers from the Crossville Police Department responded to Rural King after employees reported a theft that had occurred the previous evening on March 26, 2026. Officer Charlock and Specialist Grant reviewed the store’s video footage and positively identified the suspect as Mark Anthony Taylor II, based on a prior encounter and a recent jail booking photo.

The video showed Taylor entering the store around 8:41 p.m. wearing a dark-colored hat, multi-colored jacket, and black shoes. He proceeded to the clothing section, where he grabbed three Carhartt belts (each priced at $37.99) and concealed them inside his jacket. He then went to the tool section, took a Milwaukee Power Tool battery valued at $269.00, and concealed it in his jacket as well. Taylor exited the store through the front double doors around 9:04 p.m. without paying for the items. He got into a black four-door sedan in the parking lot and left the area.

The total value of the stolen merchandise was $382.97, and Rural King is seeking restitution. Officers were unable to obtain a copy of the full video footage, a receipt, or any details about the vehicle’s license plate, make, or model at the time, though Specialist Grant recorded portions of the video shown by the manager and loss prevention staff.

Following the review, Officer Charlock obtained an arrest warrant for Taylor for theft of merchandise.

The charges and allegations referenced in this release are merely accusations of criminal conduct, not evidence. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law.