A woman accused of stealing from Walmart allegedly had more than unpaid merchandise in her possession. Deputies say they found suspected drugs, drug paraphernalia and identification information that didn’t add up. It eventually took fingerprints and an FBI check to establish who she really was.
The investigation began at the South Point Walmart, where loss prevention employees reported a woman had passed the checkout area without paying for merchandise. A deputy responded and located the woman inside the store.
According to the Lawrence County Sheriff’s report, the woman initially identified herself as Alexandra Sullivan. During a search following her arrest, deputies discovered suspected drug paraphernalia, including items associated with drug use, along with several suspected drugs.
Investigators also found a prescription pill bottle bearing another person’s name.
Fingerprints Tell a Different Story
The woman’s identity became another issue when deputies attempted to confirm the information she had provided.
At the Lawrence County Jail, she continued to identify herself as Alexandra Sullivan. However, a fingerprint check through the FBI revealed a different identity and a criminal history involving multiple states.
The sheriff’s report indicates the woman had previously been associated with cases in Washington, D.C., North Carolina and Pennsylvania.
Deputies also reported that a preliminary field test indicated the presence of cocaine in suspected drug residue.
Multiple Charges Filed
The woman was charged with theft, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of drugs and obstruction of official business.
The suspected drugs and paraphernalia were collected as evidence, and the stolen merchandise was documented as part of the investigation.
What began as a routine retail theft complaint ultimately turned into a much larger investigation involving suspected narcotics and questions about the woman’s identity.