Myles Damien McDonough, 47, was booked on suspicion of robbery, theft and other allegations. Bail was set at $50,000.

The incident occurred around 5 p.m. at the Safeway at 900 Diablo Ave., where a security guard tried confronted a suspected shoplifter, said Novato police Sgt. Jim Tross.

The suspect then punched the guard in the head and grabbed the meat back, Tross said.

The guard tackled the suspect and called for help. Police arrived and identified the suspect as McDonough.

The guard was treated at the scene for facial injuries.

McDonough was expected to make an initial court appearance Wednesday. McDonough is also being held on outstanding traffic-related warrants.

For more crime news, visit the Marin IJ's crime blog, "The Underbelly," at http://blogs.marinij.com/underbelly