Maricopa Police Capture California Fugitive Who Fled a $20,000 Bail

Hidden Valley resident Igena Theresa Cooter, 51, is set to be extradited to Santa Clara County, California, facing serious charges of insurance fraud and perjury. Authorities in Maricopa apprehended her after she was identified as a fugitive with a warrant following her failure to comply with a $20,000 bond.

Cooter was taken into custody on Tuesday while stopping at a Circle K gas station, located at Bowlin Road and John Wayne Parkway. This location has gained notoriety recently due to a separate incident in which a Maricopa officer was shot while attempting to arrest another fugitive just days prior.

The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Department reported that Cooter is wanted for two felony counts associated with fraudulent insurance claims. Having previously worked as a home health aide until 2020, she moved to Hidden Valley in 2021. Public records and her social media profiles indicate she has a lengthy criminal history.

Investigators from Santa Clara have already begun the extradition process, confirming their commitment to bringing her back to face justice.

The case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to track down fugitives and uphold accountability for crimes committed across state lines.