Wedding ring thief sentenced to prison

A 46-year-old woman who stole a wedding ring from a friend and two watches from a jewelry store was recently sent to prison.

Reba Jo Lewis pleaded guilty in Island County Superior Court Nov. 30 to theft in the second degree and theft in the third degree. Under a plea bargain, the defense and prosecution recommended that Lewis be sentenced to a year and two months in prison.

At a hearing Dec. 5, Judge Vickie Churchill agreed with the sentencing recommendation and handed down the sentence, along with $1,150 in fines and fees. Lewis’ criminal record increased her sentence under the state’s sentencing laws.

Lewis wept as she apologized to her friend for the theft. Her attorney, Margot Carter of Oak Harbor, said Lewis had quickly confessed to the crimes and took responsibility. But the victim, a 28-year-old Oak Harbor woman, wrote in an impact statement that Lewis truly wasn’t remorseful.

The victim reported to police in August that her diamond-and-emerald ring was stolen from her home. It was estimated to be worth between $3,500 to $4,000. The victim suspected Lewis, a friend who she had helped  extensively. The woman had given Lewis a washer, a dryer, an entertainment center, pictures and other items.

Lewis originally claimed she found the ring on the ground, but later confessed to stealing it. She was also convicted of helping a man steal two watches from Gerald’s Jewelry in Oak Harbor.

 

Contact Whidbey News Times Assistant editor Jessie Stensland at jstensland@whidbeynewsgroup.com or 360.675.6611 ext. 5056.

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