GASTONIA, N.C. — The Gastonia Police Department says a woman tried to steal from a Walmart store Friday night and ended up wedging an officer with her car when she tried to get away.
The department said Sherella Janice Dudley went to the store located on North Myrtle School Road with her children, stealing various items. Police were called and got on the scene just after 5 p.m. While she was being issued a larceny citation, the department said she got into her car and tried to leave.
When she did this, Gastonia Police said Dudley hit a car and wedged an officer between her car and another one. The officer was not injured, and other officers were able to get on the scene to take Dudley into custody without further incident.
She's now charged with assault on a government official, shoplifting, and causing damage to property. The department said her children were released to the custody of other family members and that the Department of Social Services was notified.
Note: WCNC instituted a policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots.
WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings.