An investigation into the theft of an elderly man’s wallet has led to the arrest of two Louisiana women accused of making more than a dozen unauthorized credit card purchases. Authorities say the victim’s wallet disappeared shortly after an encounter at a casino, resulting in financial losses exceeding $1,000.
Two Women Arrested in Elderly Man’s Theft Case
Lafourche Parish Sheriff Craig Webre announced the arrests of Renelle Batiste, 34, of Donaldsonville, and Jessica Thomas, 41, of Thibodaux.
Both women were booked on June 1, 2026, following an investigation into the theft of an elderly man’s wallet and the unauthorized use of his credit card.
Authorities allege that the suspects participated in a series of fraudulent transactions after the wallet was stolen.
The case was investigated by the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Victim Reported Missing Wallet After Casino Visit
According to investigators, the elderly victim discovered his wallet was missing after visiting a casino in Thibodaux.
The man reported having an interaction with a woman later identified as Renelle Batiste while at the casino.
After leaving the establishment, he realized his wallet had disappeared and later noticed suspicious activity on his credit card account.
The victim informed authorities that multiple purchases had been made without his authorization shortly after the incident.
Surveillance Video Helped Identify Suspect
Detectives reviewed surveillance footage from the casino during the investigation.
According to authorities, the video showed Batiste interacting with the victim while appearing to reach toward his rear pocket.
Investigators said she left the casino shortly after the encounter.
The footage became a key piece of evidence as detectives worked to identify the person responsible for the theft.
The investigation eventually led authorities to Batiste.
More Than $1,000 in Unauthorized Purchases Reported
Following the theft, the victim reported that his credit card had been used numerous times without permission.
Authorities said there were 13 unauthorized transactions made within a 24-hour period after the wallet went missing.
The purchases reportedly totaled more than $1,000.
Detectives gathered evidence linking both Batiste and Thomas to the fraudulent activity.
Investigators allege the women worked together in carrying out the unauthorized transactions.
Multiple Fraud Charges Filed
As a result of the investigation, both suspects were arrested and transported to the Lafourche Parish Correctional Complex in Thibodaux.
Batiste and Thomas were each charged with 13 counts of access device fraud.
Access device fraud charges are commonly filed when someone is accused of using another person’s credit card, debit card, or financial account information without permission.
The charges reflect the number of unauthorized transactions investigators believe occurred.
Additional Charge Filed Against Batiste
In addition to the fraud-related charges, Batiste faces an additional allegation connected to the theft itself.
Authorities charged her with purse snatching in relation to the incident involving the victim’s missing wallet.
The extra charge resulted in a higher bond amount compared to her co-defendant.
Officials have not released further details regarding the specific circumstances surrounding that charge.
Bond Amounts Set for Both Defendants
Following their arrests, bail amounts were established for both women.
Jessica Thomas’ bond was set at $20,000.
Renelle Batiste’s bond was set at $40,000 due to the additional charge filed against her.
Both women remain subject to the ongoing criminal proceedings.
As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Investigation Highlights Financial Crime Risks
The case serves as a reminder of the risks associated with theft and financial fraud, particularly involving elderly victims.
Law enforcement agencies frequently encourage individuals to monitor their financial accounts closely and report suspicious transactions immediately.
Quick reporting often helps investigators trace unauthorized purchases and identify potential suspects.
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of protecting personal belongings and financial information in public places.
