Lewiston Woman Charged With Grand Theft After Allegedly Stealing Phone at Gym

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An 18-year-old Lewiston, Idaho woman has been charged with felony grand theft after allegedly stealing an iPhone 16 Pro Max worth over $1,000 from a local Planet Fitness gym earlier this month. Cherity Ann Compton was identified as the suspect through surveillance footage and later admitted to taking the phone and exchanging it for cash at a Walmart kiosk.

Why it matters

Theft of personal property, especially high-value items like smartphones, is an ongoing issue for gyms and fitness centers where people often leave belongings unattended. This case highlights the need for gym-goers to be vigilant about securing their valuables and the potential legal consequences for those who choose to steal.

The details

According to a probable cause affidavit, Lewiston police responded on February 2 to a report of a stolen iPhone 16 Pro Max at Planet Fitness. The victim said she left her backpack near a bench while working out and when she returned from the restroom, her phone was missing. Surveillance footage showed two females near the victim's backpack, with one reaching in and removing a cellphone. Gym management identified the individual as Cherity Ann Compton, a member of the gym. When confronted by police, Compton initially denied taking the phone but later admitted to stealing it and exchanging it for cash at a Walmart kiosk.

• On February 2, the victim reported her iPhone 16 Pro Max stolen from Planet Fitness.
• On February 22, police made contact with Cherity Ann Compton at a Lewiston residence.

What’s next

Compton is expected to make her initial court appearance on Monday afternoon. The judge will decide whether to allow her to be released on bail.