Guy who swam to island to avoid police, after allegedly stealing from Menard’s could get jail time

The 19-year-old rescued from a La Crosse River island after an alleged theft at Menard’s faces several months in jail, if he’s convicted.

Thomas Coleman of La Crosse was just convicted last month of three misdemeanors, including theft.

Thursday, Coleman was spotted stealing from the Menard’s on Lang Drive, before running into the marsh and swimming to an island where he tried to hide behind a tree.

Coleman was picked up in an inflatable boat and brought to the riverbank and arrested.

He has already pleaded not guilty to two new misdemeanors.

Police said Coleman took tools, including a circular saw, adding up to more than $200.