Great Falls police have arrested Billie Rae Guardipee, who they believe is the leader of a theft ring responsible for shoplifting thousands of dollars in merchandise. Guardipee was apprehended on Thursday and appeared in court on Friday on outstanding warrants. According to court documents, after stealing items from around town, Guardipee and several associates would then exchange them for prescription drugs. Among the recovered items are a number of high-end handbags that were stolen from Herberger's. The store's manager, Bucky Lindsterand, was at the police station on Friday to identify the bags. He noted, "We're very grateful that they have caught 'em and obviously they've put an end to this ring, but you know, unfortunately there's others out there... and you know, hopefully we can continue to prevent these kinds of circumstances." Sgt Jeff Newton of the GFPD said, "The second thing that's equally important, if not more important, now we're addressing a prescription drug issue that's pervasive not only in our community but in communities around the state and the United States." Guardipee will appear on the new charges against her next week; she's currently being held on the warrants from previous charges.
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