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Man accused of stealing free cakes from Cake Boss appearance in Market Square

PITTSBURGH — A man was arrested Tuesday after police said he broke into a storage container and stole a case of cakes that were to be distributed for free.

Buddy Valastro, star of the TV show "Cake Boss," visited Market Square Tuesday to give away 10,000 cakes to Pittsburgh fans. The event was free and open to the public –- you simply had to wait in line to receive a cake.

According to police, during the event, a staff member spotted a man stealing some of the cakes and alerted police.

Officers responded and arrested William Davenport, 52, while he was in possession of four cakes valued at about $27 each, police said. Davenport told the officers he was intoxicated and apologized for stealing the cakes.

Pittsburgh police spokeswoman Diane Richard said the alleged cake theft caused a great commotion among people who had been waiting in line for hours. Officers reportedly had to break up other fights caused by people who tried to jump the line.

“I understand that the cakes were being handed out for free at the event,” Richard said. “But they aren't free until someone hands them to you. I don't think that's what the Cake Boss wanted, for people to just come in and take the cakes.”

Detectives ran a background check on Davenport and learned he had three warrants out for his arrest. He was taken to the Allegheny County Jail and charged with theft by unlawful taking or disposition, disorderly conduct and bench warrant.