Alabama Woman Accused of Robbing Chick-fil-A With Mace, Gambling Stolen Cash, and Leading Police on Chase Before Crashing in Elmore County
ALABAMA — A Birmingham woman is facing multiple felony charges after police say she robbed a Chick-fil-A drive-thru using mace, gambled the stolen cash at a casino, and then led officers on a dangerous chase that ended in a crash into several trees.
According to investigators, the incident began Friday when the suspect allegedly sprayed mace during a robbery at the Chick-fil-A drive-thru and demanded a bag of money from an employee. The employee complied, and the suspect fled the scene.
Robbery Reported at Chick-fil-A Drive-Thru
Police identified the suspect as 32-year-old Kaudija Shondrelle Haynes of Birmingham. Authorities say Haynes used mace during the drive-thru encounter, escalating what could have been a routine robbery into a potentially dangerous situation for employees and customers. Law enforcement officials later confirmed that no injuries were reported at the restaurant during the robbery.
Stolen Cash Allegedly Gambled at Wind Creek Casino
Investigators tracked Haynes to Wind Creek Casino in Wetumpka, where she was reportedly gambling with the stolen cash shortly after the robbery. Police say this activity helped confirm her location and movements following the initial crime. Authorities attempted to take Haynes into custody after locating her, but she allegedly fled, triggering a pursuit.
Police Chase Ends With Crash Into Trees
The pursuit ended when Haynes crashed her vehicle into several trees, causing significant damage. She was taken into custody at the scene and later transported to jail without further incident. Police stated that the chase posed a serious danger to the public, as well as to Haynes herself.
Multiple Charges Filed Across Two Counties
Haynes is currently being held in the Elmore County Jail on charges including attempting to elude law enforcement, resisting arrest, unlawful possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Authorities confirmed that upon her release, she will be transferred to the St. Clair County Jail, where she will face additional charges of first-degree robbery, reckless endangerment, and fourth-degree theft of property.
Police Warn of Public Danger During Incident
Leeds Police Chief Paul Irwin said officers were relieved no employees or customers were injured during the robbery or the pursuit. He noted that the suspect’s actions placed multiple people at risk, including herself, and described the incident as a reminder of how dangerous these situations can become.
Officials emphasized that the case remains under investigation and that additional charges could be filed if warranted. What are your thoughts on this case and the risks posed during police chases? Share your perspective and join the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
