12/18/07 — Armed robbers caught; one still at large

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Armed robbers caught; one still at large

By Nick Hiltunen
Published in News on December 18, 2007 1:46 PM

Police caught two men under the crawl space of a house using dogs yesterday afternoon, but are still looking for one more in connection with an afternoon armed robbery.

Three men stormed into Hudson Insurance Agency on North John Street yesterday around 1:45 p.m., according to Goldsboro police reports.

Maj. Jeff Stewart said this is probably the fourth or fifth armed robbery in the past month, but added that is not unheard of for a city this size at this time of year.

In Monday's incident, one suspect jumped over a counter with a handgun and demanded money, but police don't know which one yet.

"They aren't talking," Calloway said.

Robert Devonce Holloman, 23, of East Edgerton Street, and Tyrone Riley Jr., 26, of South Slaughter Street, were found under a home in the 200 block of East Vine Street, according to their arrest report.

They are charged with robbery with a dangerous weapon, second-degree kidnapping and possession of a stolen firearm, police said.

They were jailed under $75,000 bond.

"We were just fortunate enough to get the ones that we got tracked down by way of canine, and able to get those two," Calloway said.

The three suspects fled on foot, but police have not been able to identify the third suspect. The videotape of the incident is not available at this time, the sergeant said.

Tracey Branson of Koonce Street reported the suspects stole a gold ring with three diamonds and $729 in cash.

The ring was returned to Mrs. Branson, police reported.

Stewart said he wanted to remind residents to be safe during the holidays, when good cheer can sometimes overtake common sense.

Stewart said it is not wise to leave valuables in cars or jackets easily available to others -- no matter how safe the environment feels.

"Travel in pairs, stay in well-lit areas, and don't leave packages in plain sight," Stewart said.