North Platte Women Charged in Burglary

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Police in North Platte, Nebraska have arrested two women, Mary Johnson and Tonya Barnett, in connection with a burglary at a local business where approximately $1,500 in cash and coins were stolen. Security footage allegedly showed Johnson, who had a key to the business and knew the safe combination, entering the premises and taking the money. Barnett is accused of accompanying Johnson and helping convert the stolen cash into gift cards.

Why it matters

Burglary and theft crimes can have a significant impact on small businesses, eroding trust in the community and raising concerns about security. This case highlights the importance of robust security measures and the need for swift law enforcement action to hold perpetrators accountable.

The details

According to the arrest affidavit, around 8 a.m. on Tuesday, February 10th, a North Platte police officer responded to a report of a possible burglary at a business in the 3200 block of Detco Circle. Approximately $1,500 in currency and coin was found to be missing from the business. Security footage allegedly showed Mary Johnson, 46, who had a key to the business and knew the safe combination, entering the premises and taking the money. Later that afternoon, a search warrant was executed at a home in the 900 block of E. 12th St., where the stolen cash and a cash box were recovered. Johnson was arrested and charged with burglary, a Class IIA felony. Tonya Barnett, 36, was also arrested and charged with aiding and abetting, which is also a Class IIA felony.

• Around 8 a.m. on Tuesday, February 10th, a North Platte police officer responded to the reported burglary.
• Around 2 p.m. that same day, a search warrant was executed at a home, and the stolen items were recovered.

What’s next

The judge will decide on Johnson's $35,000 bond and Barnett's $15,000 bond at a hearing on Tuesday.