Lincoln woman forgives teen accused of car theft

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – A Lincoln woman was without a car for two days after her 2015 Kia was stolen late Monday night.

Jill Podraza said she heard noises around 10:30 p.m

“I didn’t think anything of it,” she said. “I woke up Tuesday morning and my car was gone.”

It was one of two cars stolen that night, and the thefts were committed by four teenagers, according to Lincoln police. The other vehicle stolen was a Honda Pilot.

After both vehicles were reported stolen, authorities began searching.

Officers found Podraza's car unoccupied Wednesday at 14th and Rose streets, just a few blocks from her home.

“They didn’t take anything,” Podraza said. “The only thing they took was loose change that was in the console. And they were kind enough to put the car seat in the trunk for me.”

Police said while they were in the area, the stolen Honda arrived, driven by a 16-year-old.

Officers then attempted to stop him, but the teen refused their commands and backed into one of the patrol cars.

Podraza's car was not damaged, but there were still a few pieces of trash inside.

“It ended up being McDonald's, Tito's vodka, lots of paraphernalia and marijuana,” she said. “My car smells ridiculous.”

Four teenagers were arrested – an 18-year-old and three 16-year-olds. All are charged with theft.

Podraza said she holds no grudge against the teens.

“I prayed for the children,” she said. “I feel sorry for their mothers, their fathers or whoever. You know, they’re just a bunch of punk kids who didn’t have a good upbringing in their lives.”

Podraza said she wanted them punished, but “it is what it is.”

“It was just a car,” she said.