Hunter
01/03/23
A Walcott woman who reportedly stole items from an Iowa City adult shop was allegedly found under the influence when stopped by police.
The incident occurred at Romantix on Kirkwood Avenue Tuesday afternoon. Police say 49-year-old Tricia Stonehouse Shelley of New Liberty Road entered the store and began selecting items from the shelves, then reportedly exited swiftly through the front door. Staff chased after Shelley and tried to confront her while she got into her vehicle. While they were banging on the windows telling her to stop, Shelley reportedly squealed her tires and drove off.
Officers stopped her near the intersection of Capitol and Burlington Streets a short time later. Shelley allegedly admitted to stealing the items, which were still in her vehicle. During contact, she reportedly showed measurable signs of intoxication and failed field tests. A Drug Recognition Evaluator was called in to conduct additional testing and allegedly determined her to be under the influence of a drug or narcotic.
The value of the stolen items totaled $445.00.
Shelley was charged with 4th degree Theft and first offense OWI; she could be sentenced to up to two years in jail if convicted on both counts.