Get away car driver faces time in prison

A Reno man has admitted to driving the get away car for a TV-swiping accomplice.

Chad Ward, 39, admitted guilt in court on Monday, to principle to theft. Ward is facing prison time for the crime because of a lengthy criminal history that includes two prior felonies.

Two conspiracy charges from other thefts from various Walmarts, were dropped in exchange for his guilty plea.

Ward was arrested in Reno on Oct. 22 after a secret witness release helped connect him and his co-defendant to the Feb. 21 crime.

According to court documents, Ward, who entered the Topsy Lane Walmart with John Branum, seemed to look around for employees, then left the store and moved the vehicle to an emergency exit.

Branum allegedly left the store with a 42-inch TV, placed it in the vehicle and then left with Ward.

Ward’s attorney, Jamie Henry, said Ward’s crimes were connected to his methamphetamine and heroin addictions.

Henry asked Ward be released until his Feb. 8 sentencing to help care for his terminally ill brother.

His request was denied because of his failure to appear in October as well as his past criminal record.

Ward faces up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine if he’s found guilty.

At the time of sentencing no more the 48 months will be recommended by both sides, plus $933 in restitution to be paid jointly with Branum. In other cases:

A Carson City man who admitted he pointed a gun at his wife during an argument was granted the opportunity of Veteran’s Court.

Marc Crossley, 41, had sentencing on his assault with a deadly weapon charge postponed so he could participate in the program.

According to Crossley’s lawyer, he has been actively seeking treatment through the Veterans Association since his own recognizance release.

He was originally arrested Sept. 27 after deputies responded to his Blue Ridge Drive home for a domestic disturbance.

When deputies arrived Crossley’s wife told them they had been fighting about their newborn daughter when Crossley pointed a gun at her, told her he’d shoot her, then cocked the gun.

Crossley admitted at the time of his arraignment new medications coupled with a new baby triggered him to pull the gun on his wife.

As part of his plea agreement, Crossley has already admitted and been found guilty of battery that constitutes domestic violence in East Fork Justice Court.

If Crossley is unsuccessful in the program, he faces 12-72 months in prison and up to a $5,000 fine.