A police officer in Washington, D.C., was assaulted while trying to stop someone accused of theft.

The Metropolitan Police Department police officer was assaulted after approaching the person at 10:01 p.m. Wednesday after the suspect reportedly took items from a store without paying. 

The incident occurred in the 800 block of 7th Street, Northwest in Washington, D.C.

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Police in Washington, D.C., released this image of a suspect wanted for an assault of a police officer and theft. (Metropolitan Police Department)

According to the Metropolitan Police Department, the suspect fled after allegedly assaulting the officer.

The suspect is wanted for the alleged assault of a police officer and theft.

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A spokesperson for the police department told Fox News the officer had minor injuries as a result of the assault and did not require medical treatment. 

The case is still under investigation.

The incident comes amid a wave of shoplifting incidents in major cities across the country. High-end retailers near San Francisco, Los Angeles and Chicago have had windows smashed and property stolen in recent days. 

DC Metropolitan Police Chief Robert Contee (DC Metropolitan Police Department)

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The Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Police Department is asking anyone who can identify the suspect or who has knowledge of the incident to contact (202) 727-9099 or text the departments tip line at 50411.