That was because he had stuffed an oversized coat and his pants with meats, which law enforcement found in his vehicle, according to Captain M.D. DeLoatch Sr. of the Northampton County Sheriff's Office.

In all, law enforcement found an assortment of T-bone steaks, rib eyes, sausages, ribs and other meats stolen not only from Rich Square, but the Food Lion in Scotland Neck.

The 37-year-old Rocky Mount man was caught after the Dollar General employee called to report a shoplifting.

While en route to the call, Deputy J. Britt observed a vehicle matching the description pull into a residence near Lover's Lane Road outside Rich Square.

Deputies observed several packages of meat in the rear passenger seat, around $500 worth, DeLoatch estimated.

They also found packages of meat inside Battle's pants legs.

Battle was charged with eight counts of larceny — seven of those counts from Scotland Neck — and one count of driving while license revoked.

He was given a $10,000 secured bond and May 19 court date.

“The Northampton County Sheriff’s Office is committed to working with all law enforcement agencies in the county as well as outside of the county,” Sheriff Jack Smith said. “We are committed to working together therefore, bringing to justice those who commit offenses such as this. We like to commend and encourage all businesses to report and gather detailed information to pass on to law enforcement agencies to assist them. I would like thank Deputy J. Britt and Sergeant D. Twine for their efforts.”

DeLoatch said the meat was returned to the stores from where it was stolen.