CANTON, Mich. (WXYZ) — Emma Barker, a reality TV star from the show Prison Brides, has been arrested and is facing felony charges for allegedly stealing packages from neighbors at the Ridgeline Apartment Complex in Canton.
Barker, a foreign national from England, was taken into custody on Monday after an investigation into a string of package thefts. Police say the thefts began around a month ago when residents reported missing packages, some of which were delivered to the complex office or left at doorsteps.
During a search of Barker’s apartment, officers discovered between 10 and 15 stolen packages, many of which contained items addressed to other people, including Amazon deliveries. Barker reportedly used to receive gifts from fans, which she showcased on social media. Once those gifts stopped arriving, police say she resorted to stealing packages to maintain the appearance of continuing to receive gifts, thus encouraging fans to send more.
Barker now faces two felony charges: larceny in a building, carrying a potential four-year prison sentence, and receiving and concealing stolen property, which could result in a five-year sentence.
Neighbors expressed frustration and relief over the arrest, with some recalling missing packages, including personal items. Joey VanGoethem, a resident of the complex, remarked, “If you’re going to go stealing packages, you don’t know if you’re going to get a TV or medicine.”
Barker previously appeared on the reality TV series Prison Brides, which documented her relationship with Michigan inmate Curtis Bradford.
Following her arrest, Barker was released on a $25,000 bond. She is currently wearing a GPS tether and is scheduled to return to court next week. Her attorney has declined to comment, but it is expected that a new lawyer will be appointed for her case.
