Off-duty deputy stops burglary in progress - WAFF-TV: News, Weather and Sports for Huntsville, AL

A Livingston Parish Sheriff's Deputy was on his way home on Wednesday when he saw a "suspicious" female running from a home on Lockhart Road in Denham Springs, LA.

Deputy David Johnson saw the female talking on a cell phone and carrying items which suggested to the experienced Deputy that some type of theft or burglary had been committed.

Deputy Johnson then witnessed a suspect vehicle run from the scene.

Deputy Johnson pursued the female, later identified as Melissa Howze, and apprehended her with numerous stolen items.

Members of the LPSO Burglary Division were contacted and continued to investigate.

Upon discovering more details, Detectives arrested Travis McCray and Samantha Smart for their involvement in the burglary.

Numerous stolen items were recovered and returned to the victims.

At this time, the investigation is still ongoing.

Melissa Howze, 29, of Pine Grove, LA was arrested and charged with simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling and her bond has been set at $25,000.

Travis McCray, 32, of Livingston, LA was arrested and charged with two counts of simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling, misdemeanor theft by fraud, and creation/operation of a clandestine lab. His bond has been set at $130,500.

Samantha Smart, 25, of Walker, LA was arrested and charged with two counts of simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling, and creation/operation of a clandestine lab. Her bond has been set at $130,000.

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