2 arrested in October robbery of Porterville adult store
Nov 16, 2024
PORTERVILLE, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) - Two people were arrested Thursday after a robbery at an adult store in Porterville in mid-October, the Porterville Police Department announced.
Police say on Oct. 19 a report of a commercial burglary at Sawana's Adult Store near Olive Avenue and Lotas Street was made. On Oct. 27, more information became available and investigators began follow-ups.
Officers say a search warrant was served on the home of 69-year-old Karen Pritchard and the suspect, who had been identified as 57-year-old Shawn Whipple, both of Strathmore.
Investigators say they found a firearm and ammunition, items Pritchard is prohibited from possessing because she is a convicted felon. Pritchard was not home and thus the extensive investigation continued.
Police say on Thursday just after 4 p.m. a detective found Pritchard and Whipple leaving a facility in the 200 block of west Springville Avenue. A stop was conducted and both of them were arrested. Whipple was additionally found to be under the influence of a controlled substance.
Detectives report finding additional follow-up property related to the burglary from the adult store,
In the end, officers say Pritchard was booked on suspicion of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition and Whipple was booked on suspicion of burglary and being under the influence of a controlled substance.
Anyone with any additional information is asked to contact the Porterville Police Department at 559-782-7400.