by | Published
BUDA, Texas - A 71-year-old woman was arrested Thursday after Buda police say she stole more than $1,200 worth of merchandise from an H-E-B store during a series of thefts spanning several weeks.
According to the Buda Police Department, officers took a report on May 8 regarding multiple thefts at the H-E-B.
Working with store management, investigators identified the suspect as Mariela Arbelaez Munoz, 71, of Uhland.
Police allege Munoz committed thefts on 10 separate occasions between March 20 and May 1, resulting in losses exceeding $1,200.
During the investigation, officers learned Munoz had three previous theft convictions. Based on that history, investigators sought and obtained an arrest warrant charging her with Theft of Property Less Than $2,500 with Two or More Previous Convictions, a state jail felony.
The warrant was issued by Sandra Bryant, and information regarding the suspect's vehicle was entered into the Flock camera system.
On May 29, Hays County Dispatch received a Flock Safety alert identifying the vehicle and relayed the information to Buda officers.
An officer subsequently conducted a traffic stop near Main Street and Old San Antonio Road, resulting in Munoz's arrest.
Authorities said Munoz remained in the Hays County Jail at the time of the announcement, and no bond had been set.
The department credited Officers Fitzpatrick and Andrews for their investigative work and efforts in locating and arresting the suspect.
