Two women charged with robbery, assaulting officer at Cleveland Walmart

Two Houston women are facing felony charges after allegedly stealing food from Walmart in Cleveland and attacking a police officer during the arrest, according to Cleveland Police Capt. Scott Felts.

Around 3:16 p.m. on Aug. 12, Officer Fleming was dispatched to the store at 831 S. Highway 59 in reference to a theft. Felts said loss prevention staff had detained two women, identified as 31-year-old Tyanna Demetris Havies and 49-year-old Latonia Monique Havies, both of Houston.

While Fleming was speaking with Tyanna in the store’s loss prevention office, “she became irate and began yelling,” Felts said. Latonia then allegedly tried to force her way into the office, but Fleming blocked her path.

“At this time, both females attacked Officer Fleming, and a struggle ensued,” Felts said. The confrontation continued into the front exit area and spilled onto the walkway outside the store.

A bystander stepped in to help Fleming detain the women. They were transported to the Cleveland Police Department and charged with robbery and assault on a peace officer, both second-degree felonies.

Fleming was taken to HCA Houston Emergency Room in Cleveland, where she was treated for a bite and head contusions before being released.

Felts said a records check showed both suspects have lengthy criminal histories, including previous assault charges.

“Officer Fleming was violently attacked over what amounted to less than a $50 theft,” Felts said. “More than likely, the women would have been issued a citation and a criminal trespass warning for the location. Now they are facing a second-degree felony for the robbery and assault on a peace officer.”

Felts said the department is working with Liberty County District Attorney Jennifer Bergman’s office “to ensure the successful prosecution of these violent criminals.”