Is this considered a lesser charge?
RE: Nifong - this is one black-hearted SOB.
I don't know if it is a lesser charge but the charge before was misdemeanor larceny; now it is aiding and abetting misdemeanor larceny. Maybe the misdemeanor larceny charge means he would have had to physically steal the purses while the aiding and abetting means he was secondary to the crime - he didn't physically steal the items but helped her get away. Maybe Jezebelle can answer that question for us.
Does anyone know if Elmostafa knew Hawkins (I believe that's the name of the lady who stole the purses) prior to the crime?
Yes, it's a lesser charge, which is why I think this case is on its way to dismissal unless Nifong has a witness. The only witnesses who can implicate Mostafa are the women who were already convicted of the theft three years ago.