Leeds, Alabama – A woman accused of robbing a fast-food restaurant with mace, then gambling with the stolen money at a nearby casino, is now facing multiple felony charges after a dramatic arrest involving a vehicle crash, according to police.
Authorities say Kaudija Haynes, 32, was taken into custody following a robbery at a Chick-fil-A location in Leeds earlier this month, followed by a reckless attempt to flee law enforcement that ended when her car crashed into trees.
Robbery Reported at Leeds Chick-fil-A
According to the Leeds Police Department, the incident occurred just after 9 a.m. on Friday, January 2, at the Chick-fil-A on Ashville Road.
Police allege Haynes entered the drive-thru lane and used mace to threaten an employee, demanding the cash bag from the register. The employee complied and handed over the money without resistance.
Officers said Haynes then sped away from the parking lot, driving recklessly and creating a dangerous situation for other motorists in the area.
Suspect Tracked to Casino in Wetumpka
Investigators later traced Haynes to Wind Creek Casino, where police believe she used the stolen money to gamble.
Leeds Police Chief Paul Irwin said surveillance video and modern tracking technology allowed officers to identify her quickly.
“When we got there, we were able to get her vehicle information, look at the video, use some technology to identify her almost immediately,” Irwin said.
To assist in the arrest, Leeds police coordinated with the Wetumpka Police Department and the Poarch Creek Tribal Police Department.
Arrest Attempt Ends in Crash
Police said Haynes was located as she was exiting the casino. When officers attempted to take her into custody, she allegedly resisted arrest, got back into her vehicle, and fled the scene.
A short time later, authorities say Haynes drove off the roadway and crashed into nearby trees. No injuries were reported in the crash.
“She resisted arrest,” Irwin said. “She jumped in her vehicle and fled. A short time later, she drove off the roadway and into some trees.”
Charges and Jail Transfer
Haynes is currently being held in the Elmore County Jail. Upon her release, she is expected to be transferred to the St. Clair County Jail.
Police said she faces multiple charges, including first-degree robbery, reckless endangerment, and fourth-degree theft of property.
Police Praise Employee’s Response
Chief Irwin emphasized that the Chick-fil-A employee followed proper safety training by complying with the robber’s demands.
“They’re just supposed to give them the money or give them whatever they’re attempting to take so no one gets injured,” Irwin said. “And that’s the main thing — no one was injured in this case.”
Following the incident, Leeds police said employees at the Ashville Road Chick-fil-A will no longer be required to transport cash bags, a move intended to reduce risk during daily operations.
Technology and Cooperation Highlighted
Irwin also pointed to advances in technology and inter-agency cooperation as key factors in the swift arrest.
“I think that’s the reason why crime is down nationwide, is because the ability that we have to use technology to help catch these perpetrators and to make our communities safer,” he said.
In a statement, Leeds police praised the response from all agencies involved, noting that the suspect’s actions endangered both herself and the public.
Conclusion
Authorities say the case underscores how quickly violent incidents can escalate and how coordinated police work can bring suspects into custody before anyone is hurt. The investigation remains ongoing as Haynes awaits transfer and further court proceedings.
If you live or work in the Leeds area, police encourage staying aware of your surroundings and reporting suspicious activity. Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.
