A 62-year-old Mechler-Dallas woman is facing burglary and theft charges after an investigation by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office into a reported residential break-in.
According to court records, deputies investigated a burglary that was reported in the 200 block of Northeast 4th Street in Mechler-Dallas. The incident is alleged to have occurred sometime between March 17 and March 31.
Investigators received information during the course of the investigation that led them to identify Debra Meldrem as a suspect in the case.
Court documents allege that Meldrem entered a residence without permission and removed property belonging to the homeowner. Authorities claim the items were taken with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property.
The value of the reported stolen items was estimated at between $751 and $1,500, according to court records.
A warrant was later issued, and Meldrem was taken into custody before being transported to the Marion County Jail. Records show she was subsequently released on her own recognizance.
Meldrem has been charged with Third-Degree Burglary, a Class D felony, and Third-Degree Theft, an aggravated misdemeanor. The charges are allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled for June 11. Court records also indicate that a no-contact order has been issued.
