Man charged with beating up 62-year-old, stealing his wallet
A local man faces robbery charges for allegedly robbing a 62-year-old victim for the second time within a year.
The suspect, Gary Lee Johnson, 43, was arrested Wednesday night and charged with aggravated robbery and theft. His victim, Melvin Elliott, was treated for bruises and cuts received from the beating he received at the hands of his attacker.
According to Sheriff Jackie Matheny, the incident happened around 5 p.m. at Elliot’s home on Pleasant Hill Road. Lawmen believe Johnson, who knew the victim, entered Elliott’s house and demanded money. When the victim did not comply, Johnson allegedly attacked Elliott, landing several blows on the victim with his fists. Johnson then reportedly took the victim’s wallet, fleeing the scene with about $40 cash.
While Elliott was not seriously injured in the strong-arm robbery, the incident is being treated as a case of aggravated robbery which carries eight to 12 years in prison. According to state law, taking the property of another by force or coercion is considered robbery. The fact the victim was injured makes the crime aggravated robbery.
Matheny noted this was not the first time Elliott had been victimized by Johnson.
The sheriff said about nine months ago, Johnson was accused of stealing money from the victim. However, given the allegation that force was used in this case and that the victim suffered injury, his sentence may be much harsher than the 60 days Johnson last received for theft.