STATESVILLE, N.C.– Deputies say a man assaulted a cashier after trying to rob a convenience store in Iredell County. The only thing he got away with was a cold beer, according to deputies.
On March 13th, Deputies responded to an armed robbery call at a convenience store on Old Mountain Road near I-40.
The suspect, who was later identified as 51-year-old Darren Parker, was arrested after deputies released surveillance images of the suspect on social media.
Parker reportedly demanded money from the safe while his hand was in his pocket revealing what looked like the handle of a pistol, says the store clerk. Deputies say the clerk told Parker the store did not have a safe several times. In response, Parker reportedly struck the clerk, grabbed the beer, and ran out of the store.
Sheriff Campbell released a statement highlighting the benefits of social media:
“This investigation is a great example of how social media can be used to help investigate crimes, as well as how quickly suspects can be located by sharing information with the public and other law enforcement agencies.”
Parker has been charged with felony attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon and misdemeanor assault.
