Transient man arrested for allegedly using lost wallet to make $4,000 in purchases in Hermiston

By Griffin Beach on Wednesday, July 1st, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories

HERMISTON – A 29-year-old transient man faces multiple charges, including first-degree theft, after allegedly racking up more than $4,000 in purchases using stolen credit and bank cards.

Hermiston police said they received a call Friday night from a Hermiston man who said he dropped his wallet in the parking lot of a Spruce Street apartment complex. It was reported that an unknown individual had used cards from the wallet at locations including Walmart, Ace Hardware, Famous Footwear, Big 5, and McDonald’s for a total of $4,145.05.

Surveillance footage helped police identify Shawn Mininger as the suspect making the unauthorized purchases, authorities said. He was arrested Saturday night and charged with felony theft and identity theft.

Mininger’s bail has been set at $50,000. Court records show he faces additional charges from October 2025 for felony possession of a controlled substance.