Great secretEarlier in the year we reported on a crime so bizarre it could have been taken from a primetime police drama; the so called “cookie monster”. The case centered around a woman who was very vocal about how easy it was for her to steal money from girl scouts selling cookies. But that wasn’t the woman’s only crime. Stefanie Woods was currently on probation for a felony charge, and her antics proved to be a violation of that probation.

The final word is now in on the punishment Woods will face for violating probation:

  • The 24 year old will be nearing her 30th birthday before she is released from prison, in close to four years.

● Woods had been on a six year probation term for the felony charges of robbery with a      firearm, and kidnapping.

While six years seems like a long time, the prison term Woods was facing had she not agreed to probation was over three times that amount. Woods was looking at 20 years in prison for her felonious activity, and so entered a plea agreement to avoid a lengthy jail sentence. Negotiating a plea agreement in exchange for probation does work, but only when the defendant follows the rules. Violating probation has serious consequences, as this case demonstrates. If you are facing criminal charges and are considering entering a plea in exchange for a probationary term, consult with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney to learn what will be expected during your probation. Being prepared is the best defense, and we help our clients understand the terms of probation and work with them to help them stick to those terms!

If you have been arrested for a crime, including violation of probation, call a competent criminal defense attorney in Stuart and the Treasure Coast for help. We offer aggressive representation for criminal charges. Call us today to schedule an appointment.