Marion woman charged with burglary after reported attempt to take dog

Ashley Amanda Hughes was arrested Oct. 18 and initially denied bond, according to the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office.

A Marion woman faces a felony first-degree burglary charge after deputies say she entered a home without permission and attempted to take one of the homeowner’s dogs.

Ashley Amanda Hughes, 38, was charged following an investigation by Deputy Zeb Vance, according to the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office.

Vance responded to a Marion residence Sept. 24 after a report of a possible breaking and entering. The homeowner told him Hughes had entered without permission and attempted to take her dog, the agency said.

After being told to leave, Hughes exited the home, threw a rock at the homeowner’s car and struck the porch railing with a shovel, according to the sheriff’s office. Investigators said camera footage provided by the homeowner corroborated the account.

Deputies arrested Hughes Oct. 18. She was initially denied bond.

North Carolina Judicial Branch records show numerous pending and previous charges involving Hughes. Charges do not establish guilt, and previous charges should not be confused with convictions. Readers can review case details and dispositions through the public North Carolina eCourts Portal.

Hughes is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.