POLK COUNTY, Fla. – It seems the allure of a recreation hall at a Lake Wales fish camp was too much for Melissa Campbell, a woman well-acquainted with the Polk County Jail.
Mistaking the unlocked recreation hall building for a public giveaway, she decided to help herself to some power tools and other goodies, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
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When deputies circulated security footage of the burglary, one eagle-eyed officer immediately recognized Melissa, a familiar face with a frequent flyer card to the “Polk Pokey,” clocking in at 12 visits.
They swiftly tracked her down on Fast Trot Trail, where her alibi took a rather comical turn.
Melissa claimed she had no idea the rec hall was private property and couldn’t recall what she’d done with the stolen items. Unfortunately for her, “forgetfulness” isn’t a valid defense in court.
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And so, Melissa found herself once again enjoying the hospitality of Sheriff Grady Judd’s “Bed & Breakfast,” facing charges of burglary and petit theft. Let’s hope her memory improves during her stay!
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