A 26-year-old woman has been taken into custody based on video footage and leads in the community of Joshua, where crosses were taken from the front area of a home. The incident allegedly occurred as the family living in the home was sleeping. According to officials, the family’s video captured the woman’s face clearly. The video also included a time stamp that indicated a 3:50 a.m. time for the incident. The family used social media to post the video in an effort to identify the woman, who now faces theft charges. Warrants were issued upon identification of the individual, and she was consequently detained in Dallas.
According to reports, the woman was assisted in her efforts; officials detained her 43-year-old mother as well. The mother was taken into custody at her home, where stolen items, including crosses, were reportedly found. Officials indicated that the two women may have been involved in at least 12 other crimes in the area.
While the local community played a role in identifying the suspects, the women involved are entitled to fair treatment, including assistance from legal counsel. It may be important for these women to discuss the situation with their lawyers as they consider whether to seek plea options or face trial. Although the video footage may be significant evidence, errors in official protocol could affect the defendants’ cases.
The defense strategies for each of these women may vary based on personal histories and specific charges. Connections to additional incidents could complicate the cases, and lawyers may endeavor to obtain reduced penalties in exchange for plea agreements in such an eventuality.
Source: Burleson Star, “Two arrested, tied to cross theft case“, Amber Washington, July 07, 2014