2 Suspects arrested in Porterville Adult Store Robbery

PORTERVILLE, CA — (11-18-24) — Porterville Police announced last Thursday that they had arrested two suspects in connection to an adult store robbery that took place back in mid-October.

Police said that “On Oct. 19, a report of a commercial burglary at Sawana’s Adult Store located at 1531 W Olive Ave., was made. On Oct. 27, more information became available and investigators began follow-ups.”

According to porterville officers, a search warrant was served on the home of 69-year-old Karen Pritchard and the suspect, who had been identified as 57-year-old Shawn Whipple.

Investigators said that upon execution of the warrant, they found a firearm, ammunition and items Pritchard is prohibited from possessing because she is a convicted felon. According to police, Pritchard was not home during the execution of the warrant and thus the extensive investigation continued.

Police say on Thursday just after 4 p.m. a detective found Pritchard and Whipple leaving a facility in the 200 block of west Springville Avenue. A stop was conducted and both were arrested. Detectives also reported finding additional follow-up property related to the burglary from the Sawana’s Adult Store.

Pritchard was booked on suspicion of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. Whipple was booked on suspicion of burglary and being under the influence of a controlled substance.

Article by: Andy Powell, Staff Writer

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