Missouri Woman Accused of Using Children in Paragould Theft Scheme

PARAGOULD, Ark. — A Missouri woman is facing felony and misdemeanor charges after Paragould police say she used children to help steal merchandise from a local business.

Officers were dispatched July 31 to a business in Paragould following a report of a theft in progress. Loss prevention staff told officers that a woman later identified as Donnisha Nelson, of Kennett, Missouri, entered the store with three young children. According to a probable cause affidavit, Nelson allegedly concealed merchandise inside a plastic tote and exited the building, then drove around the parking lot while the children attempted to push the unpaid merchandise out of the store.

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Nelson and the juveniles were detained until officers arrived.

Police said Nelson initially gave a false name when contacted by officers. A follow-up investigation revealed she had prior theft convictions within the last 10 years.

After waiving her rights under Miranda during an interview with detectives, Nelson allegedly admitted to providing false information and made several other incriminating statements, according to the affidavit.

Nelson is charged with theft of property, a Class D felony; contributing to the delinquency of a minor, a Class A misdemeanor; and obstructing governmental operations, a Class C misdemeanor.

Judge Dan Stidham set her bail at $10,000 cash only, with requirement for an ankle monitor.

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.