Story Archive

Going on a Trip

When Terri L. Downs Hayes, 43, didn’t show up in court to answer felony weapons and drug charges, warrants were issued for her arrest. The Westmoreland County (Pa.) Sheriff’s Department got a tip that she was hiding in a house in Rostraver. The people inside refused to open the door, which “had been fortified with 2 by 4 [wooden] beams,” the department said, so they forced the door and went in. Three people inside gave “conflicting accounts” of Downs-Hayes’ whereabouts, so the deputies searched the home. “The search of the residence eventually focused on a rear bedroom closet that was being guarded by two pitbulls,” the department said. After safely “removing” the dogs, they found a suitcase in the closet. When they unzipped it, two hands popped out: Downs Hayes was inside, but surrendered. Investigators are “considering” charges against the three other people in the home for “hindering apprehension of a fugitive.” (RC/Pittsburgh Tribune Review) ...Alert the pitbulls!