Police arrest woman in Hampton Inn theft

Bow Editor — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 20:26:00 GMT

BY MATT SCHOOLEY

Bow police arrested a Barnstead woman for allegedly stealing cash from the front desk of the Hampton Inn in June.

Ashley Martel, 19, was arrested for theft by unauthorized taking, a Class A misdemeanor. She could serve up to one year in jail if convicted of the crime The amount of cash stolen was less than $500 or the charge would have been classified a felony.

On June 25, hotel employees reported hearing a strange noise, turned around and saw the cash register drawer ajar. Employees told police someone had jumped over the counter, and was last seen running down South Street toward Concord.

The investigation had been at a standstill until early October when Bow Police Lt. Dave Girard said two calls came into the Concord Regional Crimeline with tips that Martel was involved in the theft.

“That really got the ball rolling in the right direction,” said Girard. “She was not a person of interest at the time. The name hadn’t been mentioned by the investigating officers, so that was new information that was definitely helpful.”

Crimeline offered a reward for information leading to a suspect’s arrest, something Girard said can help move a case along.

“It’s obviously a huge help. The rewards can be helpful in getting calls. It’s a huge tool for law enforcement,” said Girard.

“The Crimeline offers anonymity to people who call in. It isn’t always an ideal situation because you’d love to speak with witnesses first-hand, but I understand why sometimes people don’t want to get involved.”

Bow News : Barnstead

Police arrest woman in Hampton Inn theft