Winona Ryder Arrested For Shoplifting And Drug Possession

Posted Friday, December 14, 2001 at 8:12 AM Central

by Tim Briscoe

Oscar-nominated actress Winona Ryder was arrested for shoplifting clothes and illegal drug possession, according to Beverly Hills police on Thursday.

Ryder allegedly tried to steal clothing and hair accessories from a Saks Fifth Avenue store worth $4,760. In addition to grand theft, she was charged for carrying narcotics. The name of the drug in her possession was not divulged.

Her attorney called the claims a "misunderstanding" on the part of the store. According to him, Ryder was simply carrying the items between store departments. A police spokesman said the painkillers may have been prescribed to her but she was charged because she could not produce the proof. There were no signs she was under the influence of the drugs at the point of arrest.

Ryder posted the $20,000 bail Wednesday night and was released from custody. She will be arraigned in Beverly Hills Superior Court on Jan. 11.