March 4, 2008
Brandon Haught
Public Information Office

SHERIFF’S OFFICE INVESTIGATES ROBBERY NEAR ORMOND BEACH 

The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an early morning armed robbery of a couple in their home near Ormond Beach Tuesday. Both victims were pistol-whipped with a handgun by the lone suspect, but they didn’t suffer any serious injuries and refused medical treatment on scene. The robber had demanded prescription drugs, which he apparently knew the victims had, and also grabbed some cash before finally fleeing. Responding deputies set up a perimeter but the suspect was not found. 

The incident started at approximately 12:15 a.m. when the 45-year-old female victim heard someone knocking on her door at 1137 Avenue F. When she unlocked the door, the robber forced his way into the house and struck the woman on the head, making her fall to the floor.  He demanded that she hand over the couple’s prescription drugs, but she refused. The robber also confronted the woman’s 58-year-old husband, striking him on the head when he refused to cooperate. The suspect checked both victims’ pants pockets and found some medication. He also grabbed the woman’s purse, which had cash inside, and finally left. 

The victims told deputies that they did not know who the robber was. They described him as a white male about 25 years old, and a little over 6’ tall with a thin build. He has short blond hair and wore a black T-shirt, blue jeans and white tennis shoes. 

Anyone with information about the home invasion is asked to contact investigator Richard Fortin at (386) 323-0151 or Crime Stoppers of Northeast Florida, toll-free, at 1-888-277-TIPS.  Callers to Crime Stoppers will remain anonymous and can qualify for a reward of up to $1,000.