Danette Colbert has been formally charged with second-degree murder following her arrest last month on charges related to the theft of a reporter's cellphone and bank cards. Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley expressed confidence in the evidence against Colbert, asserting that it is sufficient to prosecute her for the murder of the reporter, Manzano. Colbert has remained in jail since her initial arrest, and her attorney, Stavros Panagoulopoulos, has yet to comment on the recent developments.
Last month, Panagoulopoulos criticized the police's approach, stating that they were making "assumptions and guesses" in linking Colbert to Manzano's death. Despite these claims, authorities have added the murder charge after uncovering further evidence. Footage allegedly shows Colbert leaving Manzano's hotel room shortly after entering it. Additionally, Colbert was seen using Manzano’s credit card at a New Orleans gas station and several local stores.
Colbert's criminal history reveals multiple arrests in Las Vegas in 2022 for grand larceny and administering a drug to commit a felony crime. During the investigation, Xanax was found in Colbert’s home, although Manzano’s medical records indicated no prescriptions for such depressants. Dr. Gerry Cvitanovich highlighted the risks associated with central nervous system depressants, stating:
"Both of them are central nervous system depressants, and when you add them up, they're really bad."
Dr. Cvitanovich further explained:
"One of the dangers is you end up in a position where you are obstructing your ability to breathe."
Previously found guilty of theft and fraud charges in an unrelated case, Colbert and a suspected accomplice were arrested in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, under similar charges. This history of criminal activity adds weight to the current charges she faces.
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