By Staff Correspondent

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A 48-year-old woman, Una’dreen Jones, was taken into custody yesterday, accused of stealing a purse in the bustling downtown area while its owner was busy capturing memories with friends.

The Gainesville Police Department documented that on November 15 at approximately 3:35 p.m., a witness noticed Jones allegedly lifting the purse from the victim, who was preoccupied with taking photos near the intersection of South Main Street and 4th Avenue. Following the incident, both the witness and the purse owner pursued Jones and promptly alerted authorities. Upon arrival, officers were provided with a detailed description, leading to Jones’ identification and subsequent detention.

Jones, identified as homeless in the arrest records, now faces a charge of petit theft. Her criminal history includes two prior felony convictions and five misdemeanor convictions, all non-violent in nature.

This arrest marks her third since June. On June 24, she was apprehended for attempting to open car doors at a local Wawa on East University Avenue. Later, on August 14, she faced charges for trying to access a locked charter school with students inside. Following her second arrest, she was directed to Mental Health Court. However, assessments suggested that traditional talk therapy might present challenges for her participation. On September 24, she opted for a plea of nolo contendere in both June and August cases, resulting in a sentence of time served.

Judge Kristine Van Vorst ordered her released on her own recognizance.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.