$50,000 cash stolen from residence

Rosalee Dawn Johnson, 19, of Aurora, Colo., was arraigned earlier this month in Fifth Judicial District Court after allegedly steeling $50, 000 in cash from a Thermopolis residence.

According to a sworn affidavit, a Thermopolis resident reported that several of her medications and $50,000 in cash was stolen from her residence in June.

Johnson and the victim both left the victim’s house to eat at a local restaurant. The victim reported that Johnson left halfway through their meal.

It was days later when the victim realized the money was stolen and informed the police. The victim reported that Johnson was the only person in her home since the last time she had seen the money.

Attempts were made to contact Johnson by law enforcement. It was discovered Johnson had left town. She later returned to Thermopolis in a new vehicle. Law enforcement officer’s investigated the purchase of the new vehicle and allegedly were able to trace the victim’s money back to Johnson through testimony of several witnesses.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, authorities allege Johnson admitted to entering the victims home through a doggie door. Johnson allegedly found the victim's unlocked safe and took the $50,000. The affidavit also alleges Johnson stole prescription medication from the victim.

Johnson allegedly purchased a 2011 Chevrolet Camaro once she returned to Colorado. The affidavit states Johnson opened an account with Wells Fargo Bank by depositing $25,000 cash. Johnson then obtained a cashier's check in the amount of $21,500 payable to Autonation.

Johnson is charged with one count of theft, a felony, punishable by 10 years in prison and a fine of $10,000. Johnson is also charged with two counts of wrongful receiving, concealing or disposing of property, both also punishable by 10 years in prison and a fine of $10,000.

Johnson is being held in the Hot Spring County Detention Center. District Court Judge Robert Skar set Johnson's bond at $100,000 cash. A plea hearing is scheduled for January 25, 2016. A trial date has been set for February 16.