Court Hearing Held For Former Sacramento News Anchor And Fiancé Accused Of Shoplifting

>SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - This morning, a judge approved the prosecution's request to have the shoplifting charges against a former Fox40 news anchor and her alleged accomplice consolidated into one case -- something her attorney said in a phone interview with CBS13, is very common in cases where both defendants face similar charges.

The Emmy award-winning anchor, Sabrina Rodriguez, did not appear in court today.

Her attorney, Mark Reichel, acted on her behalf in this morning's hearing. But her former fiancé, Nicholas Gray, was ushered into the courtroom in handcuffs.

Gray is being held on bail and faces additional felony charges not related to shoplifting.

Rodriquez's lawyer added that depending on future evidence and new information in the case, they could decide not to join in the future.

The next court date was set for October 7 at 8:30 a.m.

Rodriguez surrendered to officials on July 31, and faces grand theft, burglary and conspiracy charges.

According to court documents, Rodriguez drove fiancé Nicholas Gray to San Francisco to help sell stolen goods. Included in the court documents are alleged texts between the couple that reveal a theft conspiracy.

On August 5, Rodriguez issued a statement noting that she has broken off her relationship with Gray.

"As of today I have severed my ties with Nick Gray. I am now focusing on life decisions as I move forward with the support of family, friends, viewers and the community," Rodriguez wrote.

Her attorney told CBS13 he's going to work hard to restore her good name and reputation and believes she is innocent.