By Heather Clower
The Parsons Advocate
A jury trial was on the schedule for Tammy Mook to appear before the Honorable Judge James Courrier in Tucker County Circuit Court on charges consisting of burglary, grand larceny, and conspiracy. Days before the trial, Mook’s attorney Brent Easton and Prosecuting Attorney for Tucker County Ray LaMora notified the Judge that an agreement had been reached and there was no longer a need for a trial.
Mook appeared on Wednesday, November 4 to enter her plea of guilty to one count of burglary in exchange for the charges for grand larceny and conspiracy to be dismissed. According to the complaint, on July 28, 2017, Mook and another individual arrived at Timberline Four Seasons Realty Office and allegedly stole keys from the late arrival box for a residence in Deerfield Village. Video surveillance recorded Mook and the other individual taking the keys and she was identified by officers who viewed the footage. The defendant allegedly used the key to gain access to the dwelling and stole several items, including but not limited to a television, DVD player, lamps, pictures, and other items. In the process, an interior door was damaged to gain access to a locked closet.
On August 17, 2017, Sergeant C.D. Siler of the W.Va. State Police executed a search warrant at Mook’s residence where several items from the burglarized property were discovered. After being read her Miranda Rights, Mook made a statement admitting to the crime.
Judge Courrier explained Mook’s rights and ensured her understanding of the proceedings and the penalties associated with entering a guilty plea to the felony charge. The penalty associated with burglary is a one to a 15-year sentence where a minimum of one year would be served before becoming eligible for parole. Restitution, the restoration of something lost or stolen to the property owner, will also be required in this matter.
Easton requested a pre-sentencing investigation be completed prior to the sentencing of Mook, which was honored. Other charges against Mook are still pending and further hearing and/or trial dates will be set accordingly. A sentencing hearing will be set upon the conclusion of the PSI.
