Police arrest women who allegedly used baby as distraction to steal cell phones

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Authorities have arrested two women who allegedly used a baby as a distraction while they stole cell phones at valley gyms.

Phoenix police say 43-year-old Bonnie Herbert and 24-year-old Eboney Herbert each have been booked into jail on suspicion of assault, theft, shoplifting and endangerment.

Although the women share a last name, police didn't immediately say if they are related. It's also unclear if either woman has a criminal history.

Police say the suspects used a small child to distract patrons while the thefts were taking place.

The two were arrested December 13th at a Phoenix hotel near Interstate 17 and Dunlap Avenue.

Neither woman had a lawyer at their initial court appearance Wednesday.

Bonnie Herbert was ordered held without bond while Eboney Herbert was released on her own recognizance pending a December 30th preliminary hearing.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.