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Coralville Man Charged with Theft from Goodwill
Suspect allegedly stole over $70 in merchandise and left behind incriminating evidence.
Jan. 29, 2026 at 4:39pm
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A 49-year-old Coralville man named Louis Church has been charged with 3rd degree Theft, an aggravated misdemeanor, after allegedly stealing over $70 worth of items from a local Goodwill store. Police say Church took a shopping cart full of merchandise into the store's bathroom, changed clothes, and left the store wearing the stolen items. He also left behind his phone in the bathroom, helping authorities identify him as the suspect.
Why it matters
Retail theft is an ongoing issue that impacts businesses, raises consumer prices, and strains law enforcement resources. This case highlights how even seemingly minor thefts can lead to serious criminal charges, especially for repeat offenders like Church who has two prior theft convictions.
The details
According to police, the incident occurred on January 22nd around 3pm at the Goodwill store on Highway 6 East in Coralville. Church allegedly took a shopping cart full of merchandise into the bathroom, changed into the stolen clothes, and left the store without paying. Staff estimated the value of the stolen items at just over $70. Authorities were able to identify Church as the suspect because he left his phone behind in the bathroom.
- The incident occurred on January 22, 2026 around 3pm.
- Church has two prior theft convictions.
The players
Louis Church
A 49-year-old Coralville resident who has been charged with 3rd degree Theft, an aggravated misdemeanor, for allegedly stealing over $70 worth of merchandise from a local Goodwill store.
Goodwill
A non-profit thrift store chain that accepts donated goods and sells them to support job training, employment placement services and other community-based programs.
What’s next
With two prior theft convictions, Church faces up to 2 years in prison if convicted on the current 3rd degree Theft charge.
The takeaway
This case highlights how even seemingly minor retail thefts can lead to serious criminal charges, especially for repeat offenders. Businesses, law enforcement, and the community must remain vigilant in addressing this persistent problem.
