A shoplifter assaulted a PCSO who confronted him outside of a supermarket in Sunderland.
Police were called to the Asda on Ryhope Street South after reports that a man picked up bottles of alcohol and had left the store without payment.
Upon leaving the supermarket, the individual bumped into a police community support officer (PCSO) who confronted him about the theft.
The officer was then shoved by the suspect, who dropped the stolen items and made off from the scene. The PCSO was uninjured following the incident.
An investigation is under way and Northumbria Police has now issued a CCTV image of a man they want to speak to.
A spokesperson for the force said: "An investigation is ongoing into the incident, and police have now identified a man they would like to trace. He was in the area at the time and could have information that may assist officers.
"The man, or anyone who recognises him, is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 577 170719 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
