New details show Xanax found in Kansas City sports reporter’s autopsy

KENNER, La. (WGNO) — The woman accused of theft in connection with the death of a Kansas City reporter in town for the Super Bowl was back in court on Tuesday, Feb. 25.

The judge ordered 48-year-old Danette Colbert to be held without bond, labeling her a flight risk and a danger to society. The judge stated her prior convictions and the fact she doesn’t show up for appearances as another reason.

Colbert is accused of stealing the cell phone and credit cards of Kansas City reporter Adan Manzano, who was found dead in a Kenner hotel room earlier this month.

Kenner police detective Jeffrey Fitzmorris testified that Colbert was the last person seen at Manzano’s hotel. He also testified that a receipt from a New Orleans ATM showed Colbert had tried to withdraw money from Manzano’s account multiple times.

Colbert has a previous arrest record for allegedly drugging men to steal from them. Investigators say Xanax was found in Manzano’s autopsy at the time of his death.

However, Colbert’s attorney, Stavros Panagoulopoulos, argued his client and the victim were out all night drinking. He claims anyone could have slipped him the drug. He also said Colbert is not a flight risk.

“She is a resident of Louisiana. There’s been no reason to believe that she would flee to flee the jurisdiction. She’s appeared in court to any circumstance that means she’s been previously called. Given that she’s just been arrested in the nature of the allegations made against her, how would you think she’s scared? She’s frustrated, she’s upset, she’s innocent of the charges and she’s looking forward to proving it, ” said Panagoulopoulos.

If convicted, Colbert faces up to 20 years to life due to her previous record.

Colbert has a probation hearing set for Wednesday in Orleans Parish, where she is also being held without bond.

Latest Posts