Lowndes County, GA -- February 16, 2012 --

On Wednesday, February 15, Sergeant Jack Winningham, an investigator with the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, was driving on Georgia Highway 376 near Lake Park when he observed a vehicle in front of him running off the roadway multiple times.

Due to a safety concern Sergeant Winningham stopped the vehicle and spoke with the occupants. While speaking with Darra Maulden, Sergeant Winningham noticed two {2} forty seven inch {47”} flat screen televisions, still in boxes, in the vehicle, a Mercury Grand Marquis. One television was in the back seat and the other was in the trunk of the car, which was open.

During their conversation, the vehicle passenger, Darra Maulden stated that she had purchased the televisions from the Wal-Mart on Norman Drive in Valdosta. The store management was contacted in an attempt to verify the purchase. It was learned that the televisions had not been purchased from that store as stated by Darra Maulden.

During an investigation it was confirmed that Darra Maulden had actually entered the business, loaded the televisions in a cart and walked out without paying.

The driver was released after it was confirmed that they had no involvement in the theft. Darra Maulden was arrested and transported to the Lowndes County Jail. She will appear in the Lowndes County Magistrate Court today for the consideration of a bond.

Charged: Maulden, Darra Ann
19 years old
U.S. Highway 129
Jasper, Florida
Charges: Theft by shoplifting – felony

Sheriff Prine commended Sergeant Winningham for his keen observation that led to this arrest. “Our deputies never know what a traffic stop will lead to” and this is a good example of a deputy going beyond his normal duties said Sheriff Prine.

Sheriff Prine encouraged anyone with information pertaining to any crime to contact the Sheriff’s Office at {229} 671-2900 or the departments tip line at {229} 671-2985. Tips can also be submitted on-line at www.lowndessheriff.com. Tipsters may remain anonymous.