Two Arrested During Attempted Storage Unit Burglary in Odessa

On November 15, 2025, at approximately 6:20 p.m., Odessa Police responded to a reported burglary in progress at Permian Storage, 525 W. 42nd Street. Officers arriving on scene observed a gray Infiniti QX56 with a stolen U-Haul trailer attached, parked near the storage units, with two individuals standing nearby.

The suspects were detained and identified as Tommie Shelton Jr. and Wendy Leeann Freels. Shelton was carrying a loaded Taurus 9mm handgun in his front pocket. Investigators determined that the pair had altered the position of a surveillance camera and were actively loading property from a storage unit into the stolen trailer.

Freels, with a history of prior felony and theft-related convictions, was charged with Possession of Controlled Substance (Penalty Group 1) – State Jail Felony, Possession of Controlled Substance (Penalty Group 2) – State Jail Felony, Theft of Property – State Jail Felony, Burglary of a Building – State Jail Felony, and Possession of Marijuana – Class B Misdemeanor. While in custody at the Ector County Law Enforcement Center, she attempted to conceal methamphetamine in her clothing, resulting in an additional charge of Prohibited Substance in a Correctional Facility – 3rd Degree Felony.

Shelton, who appears to be facing his first felony charges, was booked for Theft of Property (enhanced due to committing the act while carrying a firearm) – 3rd Degree Felony, Burglary of a Building – State Jail Felony, and Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon – Class A Misdemeanor.

Police credit quick response and investigative work for preventing further loss and ensuring the suspects were taken into custody without incident.