Woman Accused of Theft and Counterfeit Bill Use at Tazewell Restaurant
In Tazewell, Tennessee, a woman was recorded on camera stealing approximately $50 from a donation jar meant for the Claiborne Animal Shelter at the La Esperanza Mexican restaurant. The woman is also accused of using a counterfeit $100 bill at…
Greenville Spartanburg Asheville Anderson, SC, September 9, 2026 — In Tazewell, Tennessee, authorities are investigating an incident involving a woman accused of theft and passing counterfeit currency at a local restaurant. The woman was reportedly captured on surveillance footage stealing approximately $50 from a donation jar intended for the Claiborne Animal Shelter. The theft occurred at the La Esperanza Mexican restaurant.
The same individual is also accused of attempting to use a counterfeit $100 bill at the same establishment. Details regarding the specific date or time of these alleged incidents were not immediately available, nor was the name of the woman involved. The donation jar targeted was collecting funds for the Claiborne Animal Shelter, a local organization dedicated to animal welfare.
Surveillance cameras at La Esperanza Mexican restaurant recorded the alleged theft from the donation jar. The amount taken was reported as approximately $50. In addition to the alleged cash theft, the woman is suspected of presenting a counterfeit $100 bill to the restaurant. Information on whether the counterfeit bill was successfully passed or detected before completion was not provided. The restaurant staff or management’s direct actions following the incidents were not detailed in the available information.
The Claiborne Animal Shelter relies on community donations to support its operations, which include rescuing, sheltering, and rehoming animals. The loss of funds, even a relatively small amount, can impact the shelter’s ability to provide essential services. Authorities have not released further information regarding the ongoing investigation, including potential charges or next steps in identifying the suspect. The contractor’s name was not provided. The fine amount was not provided. The permit status was not provided. The inspection outcomes were not provided. The code violations were not provided. The exact timeline of events or when the footage was reviewed by law enforcement was not specified.
Story summarized from the original created by Camruinn Morgan-Rumsey, Jordan Gartner on www.foxcarolina.com, see more information here.
