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A case of mistaken identity led to the arrest of a local woman
A case of mistaken identity has resulted in the wrongful arrest of a local woman by the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheila Dwelly, 68, of Dahlonega was taken into custody last Tuesday and charged with two counts of theft by shoplifting after warrants were issued by Judge Dyann Beaty. Evidence presented to the Enotah judge reportedly included photographs of a female suspect who was accused of stealing items from Walmart.
Dwelly said she was “shaking” when a deputy arrived at her house and placed her under arrest last week. She was transported to Lumpkin County Detention Center and officially charged with the crime before authorities realized that they had the wrong woman in custody. Her mug shot and booking information were also included in the arrest report printed in this week’s issue of The Nugget.
Dwelly said she ultimately spent about five hours at the detention center.
“They put me in a holding cell. They never actually put me in the back. I would have had a nervous breakdown if they did,” said Dwelly with a laugh.
When contacted by The Nugget, Lt. Alan Roach said the actual suspect bears an uncanny resemblance to Dwelly.
“When the deputy started looking at the specifics of it he was able to determine that it was someone else,” said Roach.
A followup notice was then issued by Beaty and the charges were dropped.
“Although there was sufficient probable cause for the issuance of the warrant, it was later determined that another person may be the correct defendant in the matter,” stated an order from Beaty. “Consequently the warrant is hereby dismissed.”
Dwelly said she has since received an apology from the arresting officer and holds no grudge against the LCSO.
“The police are just here doing their jobs,” she said. “You can’t hold that against them.”
The Nugget is following up on details of this story.