Maryland man charged with assault and robbery in casino thefts

Police believe they have arrested the man who allegedly held up two women at knifepoint in a Maryland casino. Neither woman was harmed in the hold-ups, but an undisclosed amount of cash was allegedly taken in the second incident. The arrested man, a 32-year-old resident of Bowie, faces second-degree assault, armed robbery, and related charges.

The police allege that the man attempted to take a purse away from a woman in an elevator at the casino during the first incident. He was, however, unable to take the purse and fled the scene. In the second incident, the man allegedly approached a woman in her car and demanded money from her. The police report states the woman handed over some money and the suspect then fled the area.

Authorities said that they were unable to locate the suspect at first, although there were numerous officers out searching for him. He was finally found and arrested after detectives spoke with casino security personnel and witnesses. Footage from casino surveillance cameras was also reviewed. The local Chief of Police credits the arrest to the teamwork between law enforcement officers and the casino.

The arrested man is being held at the county jail and the assault and armed robbery charges could have serious consequences for him if he is convicted. No criminal conviction can occur in Maryland, however, in the absence of competent and relevant evidence that complies with a stringent burden of proof. The man being held in custody will require a vigorous and compelling criminal defense if he is to regain his freedom and fight the charges filed against him.

Source: wbal.com, “Man Arrested After Holding Up Two Women At Knifepoint In Casino,” Ashley Michelle Williams, July 22, 2013