Albuquerque residents can breathe a sigh of relief, at least for now. A woman accused of plaguing businesses across the city with a string of armed robberies in 2022 has been hit with a hefty dose of additional charges.
As per Yahoo Cleo Barela, already behind bars since her initial arrest last fall, now faces a much steeper climb towards potential release. Nearly two dozen new assault charges have been stacked on top of the dozen fresh armed robbery charges she’s facing.
Authorities believe Barela targeted a wide range of establishments, including local Starbucks, Subways, and Pizza Huts. According to arrest warrants, she allegedly employed a chilling tactic during these robberies.
Brandishing a firearm, she would reportedly hold employees at gunpoint while counting down, heightening their fear and ensuring compliance.
The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) is confident these additional charges will significantly strengthen their case and keep Barela off the streets.
Related Articles:
- Top 10 Burglar Busted: APD Nabs Antique Store Bandit After Months-Long Crime Spree
- Albuquerque Fireworks Fizzel: Residents Light Up the Sky with Few Consequences
- Bosque County Sheriff’s Office Cracks Down on Lake Whitney Activities: Recent Operation and Ticket Issuance
“She went on a rampage, terrorizing local businesses for months,” said APD Public Information Officer Gilbert Gallegos.
“This mountain of evidence clearly demonstrates to the courts that she poses a serious threat to public safety and shouldn’t be given the opportunity to harm anyone else.”
With this latest development, Albuquerque can take comfort in the hope for a safer business environment and await the next chapter in Barela’s legal journey.