Suspect says she stole to pay off her probation

The woman is accused of stealing from cars.

By MOLLY MOORHEAD, Times Staff Writer
Published November 17, 2007

HUDSON - It was 45 degrees outside when Cassie Chapman went rummaging through a stranger's car on Stagecoach Lane about 4 a.m. Friday, authorities said.

When the car's owner spotted her, she took off running. And when a police dog caught up to her, according to a report, she had money, a power drill, CDs, a portable CD player and a car stereo on her -- all stolen.

Where was she stowing the loot? In a baby stroller, which was also holding a 5-month-old infant, who was wrapped in blankets to guard against the chill.

Chapman, 22 of 8509 Hunting Saddle Drive, was charged with auto burglary and petty theft, as well as child abuse.

The baby was put in the care of relatives.

Chapman was being held in the Land O'Lakes jail Friday in lieu of $10,150 bail. Records show arrests in Pasco dating to 2003, including scheme to defraud charges last year to which she pleaded no contest and was sentenced to three years' probation.

After she was taken into custody Friday, she volunteered some information to the arresting deputy, the report says.

Chapman called her actions "stupid" and said she was stealing from cars in order to pay off her probation.

[Last modified November 16, 2007, 21:48:54]