On September 29, 2024, a Sulphur Springs Police Officer responded to a report of theft at Walmart, where Asset Protection had detained an individual in their office. Upon arrival, the officer spoke with the Asset Protection representative, who informed them that two individuals were involved in stealing a television.
The detained suspect, identified as Verna Jean Wilkins, was captured on surveillance footage loading a flat-screen television into her motorized shopping cart. The footage showed her navigating through the store and exiting past the last point of sale without paying for the item.
After being approached by Asset Protection, Wilkins was read her Miranda Rights, acknowledged her understanding of those rights, and expressed a willingness to speak with the officer. She confessed to attempting to steal the television with the intention of selling it later for cash.
Asset Protection revealed that Wilkins was also recorded earlier that day leaving the store with another unpaid television. When questioned, she admitted to stealing that television as well and confirmed that she had already sold it for cash. The total value of the stolen television was approximately $150.
Wilkins was taken into custody and escorted to the officer's marked patrol unit for transport to the Hopkins County Jail. During the process, it was discovered that she had two outstanding active misdemeanor warrants. She was booked for the theft charge and the warrants without incident, with her bond set at $1,000.
