Edmond Grandma Caught Shoplifting For Christmas Gifts Speaks Out

A grandmother was arrested for shoplifting in Edmond. But she said she did it to provide Christmas gifts to her grandchildren.

This is more than just a story about a woman caught stealing. It's about a woman desperately wanting a second chance with her daughter and grandchildren.

11/15/2013 Related Story: Police: Edmond Grandma Steals Wal-Mart Merchandise For Christmas Gifts

"I didn't want them to wake up Christmas morning and not have anything from grandma," said Darlene Young Miller.

Miller said she's not proud of what she's done. But said she felt like she had no other choice.

"I spent 23 years of my life locked up," said Miller. "And when I got out, I tried to get a job. But I couldn't get one because of my record. So I refused to let them wake up without Christmas. So I went to Wal-Mart, and got a bunch of gifts and got caught doing it."

Miller is accused of stealing almost $600 worth of clothes, toys and other items from the I-35 Wal-Mart in Edmond.

The grandmother has been in jail before for numerous things, and her daughter told News 9 she's had a very hard life. And this was to be her first Christmas with her grandchildren.

"She's never been able to give my kids Christmas," said her daughter, Jonelle Young. "She's just wanted to go out and help us, and kind of take the load off and give her grandkids Christmas this year."

Miller said most days, she just lives out of her car, and tries to find someone to hire her.

"I might sweep a sidewalk, or clean a parking lot for gas money to keep myself warm at night," said Miller. "Really there's nowhere for me to turn."

She said had she had the money to pay for the items, she would have.

"And would have donated more if I'd had I," said Miller. "There's times that I took the last jacket off my back to give to somebody at the Jesus House because I know that god always blesses me."

Now she just hopes she can bless her grandchildren with more than just her presence.

Both Miller and her daughter actually help collect items to give to others in need. They post those items on a Facebook page called "Free Group" and we were actually there when they gave some items to another young mother in need.