Witness Helps SAPD Catch Burglar Inside Home

SAN ANGELO, TX - Last night, San Angelo Police arrested 41-year-old Linda Ann Peterson for Felony 2 Burglary of Habitation after being caught inside someone else’s home in a Santa Rita neighborhood.

SAPD Officer Tracy Gonzalez said, at about 6 p.m. yesterday, officers responded to the 1000 block of W. Avenue D for the report of a suspicious woman who had been previously seen in the area asking Santa Rita residents for money and trying to open doors.

"Upon arrival, an officer spoke with a witness who presented a cell phone picture of the suspicious woman," said Gonzalez. "The woman, who matched the clothing and physical description of the previous reports, was barefoot and wearing a black ankle monitor."

She added that, after searching the immediate area, police received information that a door to a nearby residence in the 500 block of S. Washington was open. 

"That door was observed to be closed by an officer upon initial response, and the house was in the immediate area of where the suspect was last observed," noted Gonzalez.

While conducting a sweep of the residence, officers observed random opened doors, drawers, and cabinets throughout the house. They also located Peterson hiding in a closet on the second floor.  

"During the field investigation, it was determined Peterson was wearing clothing belonging to the homeowner," said Gonzalez. "No forced entry was located."

Peterson was transported to the Tom Green County Jail without incident. In addition to the Burglary charge, Peterson was booked on an outstanding Parole Violation Warrant.     

This is Peterson's 16th arrest in Tom Green County.

Gonzalez said, "Police would like to remind citizens to be vigilant, secure their personal property, and report suspicious activity to Police Dispatch at (325) 657-4315, or to 9-1-1 for crimes in progress."