Man arrested in connection with suspected vehicle theft, woman with him busted on drug charges

A man was arrested Feb. 12 in connection with a suspected vehicle theft the day before, and a woman with him was arrested on unrelated charges, according to Maricopa police. 

Robert Wiley, 42, was arrested on theft means of transportation, false reporting, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of dangerous drugs and driving with a suspended license.  

At about 9 p.m. on Feb. 12, an electronic license-plate scanner alerted Maricopa Police that a stolen 2003 Honda Accord near Walmart. 

Officers found the vehicle backed into a parking stall at Walmart with Wiley in the driver’s seat. He was removed from the vehicle, according to the probable-cause statement, and arrested.   

A record check indicated Wiley’s license was suspended. 

According to the probable-cause statement, Wiley told officers the vehicle belonged to his wife’s sister. He was unable to remember her name, officers said.  

Later, Wiley retracted his statement and told officers the vehicle belonged to his wife.  

During the arrest, surveillance footage revealed a woman exiting the vehicle and walking into Walmart.  

Tonya Davis, 50, was detained upon her return, and arrested on possession of stolen property and possession of drug paraphernalia.  

Officers searched the car, Wiley and Davis, discovering a burnt straw and a cylindrical glass pipe with a bulbous-like end. These items are commonly associated with illicit drug consumption, police said. Wiley did not take ownership of the glass pipe, but it was within reach of Wiley and Davis, according to police.  

A blue backpack, which Wiley stated was his, also was recovered from the vehicle. Inside, officers found a small bag with white, clear residue, which later tested positive for methamphetamine.  

Wiley and Davis were booked into Pinal County jail on Feb. 13.  

A hearing is scheduled on Feb. 21 for Wiley, who will be tried in Pinal County Superior Court.