Melanie Hagner Law Student Journey: Melanie Hagner, a St. Mary’s University law student, won a civil ruling against her ex-boyfriend but was arrested for theft. Hagner has a legal history. Before, she was arrested for violating a safety order. The judge awarded her $1,200 in damages over a broken garage door and a loan to her ex-boyfriend Juan “Tony” Valdez for bail. There were differences in the proceedings, including varying accounts and questioned claims.
Hagner initially requested around $3,000 in compensation as her own lawyer. When Judge Patterson questioned the math, she denied Hagner’s loan. This led to the $1,152 decision.
Valdez faced charges of kidnapping, burglary, domestic abuse, and violating a protection order. In January, he was charged with a fourth crime for breaking the protective order by letting Hagner into his home during house arrest. In April, Valdez’s charges were dismissed.
Hagner was accused of credit card misuse. An attorney admitted to illegal purchases. Hagner got a $911.93 theft warrant. Hagner is charged with $750 to $2,000 theft, a Class A misdemeanour.
Her legal issues have raised concerns about her conduct, with suggestions of court system manipulation. Her legal problems worsen as the court prepares to hear her appeal.
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