A mum who shot a home invader dead to protect her children will not face charges, say police in Louisiana.
Career crook Robert Rheams, 51, had broken into the home armed with a shovel and a steel lug wrench in the early hours of the morning on 8th January.
But after he was confronted by the homeowner – not named in local media – she shot him dead.
Police say Rheams was out on parole following a 20-year sentence for armed robbery.
Newsflash obtained a statement from the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office on Monday, 9th January, saying: “The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office reports one subject is deceased following a home invasion at a Hammond residence, which occurred in the early morning hours of January 8, 2023.
“Chief Jimmy Travis says deputies responded to reports of shots fired at a residence on Klein Road shortly after 5:00 AM on Sunday.
“During the course of the investigation, detectives were able to determine the suspect, later identified as 51-year-old Robert Rheams of Hammond, was armed with a shovel and a lug wrench when he forced entry into the home of the victim and her two young children.
“During the incident, a physical altercation took place between Rheams and the homeowner which ultimately led to Rheams being shot by the homeowner. Rheams was later pronounced deceased on scene by the Tangipahoa Parish Coroner’s Office.”
The police added: “At the time of the incident, Rheams was out on parole after serving approximately 20 years in prison for armed robbery. Detectives have also been able to tie Rheams to a carjacking which occurred hours prior to the home invasion.”
The statement goes on to say that the mother has not been arrested or charged with the shooting.
But the case has been referred to prosecutors who have the power to reverse the decision.
The statement went on: “Chief Travis adds that as of this time, no arrests were made in this investigation.
“Once the investigation is complete, the case will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for further review.
“Chief Travis concludes by adding this case appears to be a homeowner exercising second amendment rights to protect herself and her children from a violent home invasion.”
