“Lost” Item Leads To Felony Shoplifting

(SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb.) — A 39-year-old Scottsbluff woman faces a felony shoplifting charge following a February theft at a local home improvement store and a subsequent bench warrant issued after she failed to appear in court.

Laura N. Schnell, also known as Laura Little Eagle, was arrested Feb. 19, 2026, after officers responded to a report of a shoplifting in progress at Menards, 2401 Delta Drive.

According to an affidavit of probable cause filed by Scottsbluff Police Officer Maric J. Vorse, store employees reported seeing Schnell run out of the store with a large box hidden under her jacket. The box contained a jump starter valued at $199.95.

Officers initiated a traffic stop on a silver 2004 Toyota Camry matching the suspect vehicle description. Schnell reportedly claimed she lost the item as she entered the vehicle, but officers were unable to locate it.

Because of prior convictions, Schnell was charged with theft-shoplifting, $0-$500, third or subsequent offense, a Class 4 felony.

Court filings indicate Schnell posted a $270 appearance bond, representing 10% of a $2,700 bond, on April 6, 2026, and pleaded not guilty.

However, Schnell failed to appear for her scheduled District Court arraignment May 15, 2026. District Judge Leo Dobrovolny revoked her bond and ordered a bench warrant for her arrest.

Court records show the bench warrant, No. 00119740, was issued May 21, 2026, and returned executed Sept. 29, 2026.

District Judge Andrea D. Miller is presiding over the case.