Sioux Center, Iowa — A couple from South Dakota has been arrested after police say they stole merchandise from the Sioux Center Walmart.
Sioux County arrest records indicate that the Sioux Center Police Department arrested 31-year-old Michael Wika of Parker, South Dakota and 28-year-old Kela Hansen of Sioux Falls on Saturday, September 9th.
According to the criminal complaint, the Sioux Center Police Department believes that Wika and Hansen entered the Sioux Center Walmart, and Wika gathered items and then met Hansen in the store. The police allege that Wika told Hansen to drive their pickup to the rear of the store, which they say she did. They then believe that Wika exited the store from a rear emergency exit and placed a large tub full of merchandise in the back of the pickup. Sioux Center Police say the value of the merchandise was nearly $1700. They believe the pair were going to sell the electronics, according to the complaint.
In addition, court records indicate that after Hansen was transported to jail, meth was found on her person.
The arrest log says Wika was charged with Second Degree Theft, a class D felony; and misdemeanor counts of Presenting a False ID and Open Container. It says Hansen was also charged with Second Degree Theft, as well as Possession of Contraband in a Correctional Facility, which is also a class D felony. She was also charged with misdemeanor counts of possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving without a license.
Court records indicate that the pair will face a preliminary hearing on Tuesday, September 19th. At last report, they remained in the Sioux County Jail in lieu of $5300 bond, each.
