Lansing police are in search of two men who they allege attempted to pull off two armed robberies on Monday evening, December 17.
Robert Merritt, public information officer for Lansing police, told news reporters that at approximately 7 p.m. officers were dispatched to the Gray and South Holmes streets area where they spoke with two Lansing teenagers, a 16-year-old female and 17-year-old male. The teens, who were alleged victims in the incident, told police that two men approached them as they were walking in the area at around 6:45 p.m. According to the teens, one of the men demanded drugs and brandished a handgun, although the teens told police they did not have any drugs. The teenagers, who fled on foot, were not injured in the altercation.
The next alleged victim police spoke with was a 57-year-old Lansing man, who said that one of the two men who approached him at about 6:50 asked for a cigarette. One of the suspects then demanded money, and again brandished a weapon. The victim was struck over the head when he told the men he didn’t have any money. He was then kicked repeatedly after falling to the ground, according to Merritt. Nothing was stolen from the alleged victim, and he refused medical treatment for minor injuries inflicted to his head and body.
Police believe the suspects in both cases are the same men. Victims described the men as being approximately 6 feet tall, and between 16 and 18 years in age. The man brandishing the handgun was said to be stocky, and wore dark pants, a dark colored hooded sweatshirt, and ski mask. The second suspect was not wearing a mask, but said to have a thin build and light complexion.
Michigan criminal defense lawyers know that a charge of attempted armed robbery is serious, even when the weapon or gun used is a toy or BB gun. While an individual may face life in prison for armed robbery if convicted, the penalty for this lesser offense will depend on a number of factors, and whether a plea agreement can be negotiated.
If you have been arrested on a charge of armed robbery or attempted armed robbery, it is urgent that you consult with an experienced Michigan criminal defense attorney right away.