The Homestead Police have arrested a suspect in connection with a robbery and aggravated assault that occurred at a Homestead gas station several weeks ago.
The incident began when the suspect allegedly entered the victim’s car while she pumped gas. The suspect tried to take the car but when the victim noticed, she tried to stop him. The gas station’s security cameras captured the suspect trying to drive off in her car with the woman trying to stop him. The woman was dragged to the ground and run over by her own car.
Miami-Dade County Corrections records indicate that the accused is being charged with burglary of an unoccupied conveyance and grand theft third-degree.
However, it is fully expect that those charges will be escalated to robbery (carjacking) and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Perhaps even aggravated battery with a deadly weapon since the car actually struck the alleged victim.
The accused has a substantial criminal record and could face a career criminal enhancement for his new charges.
The charge would be elevated to carjacking as opposed to burglary because once the woman tried to stop the accused, he used force to obtain the property (the car). When the property in question is a car, the crime becomes carjacking. Carjacking can be charged whether the accused uses a weapon or not.
For striking the alleged victim, a charge of aggravated assault or aggravated battery would likely be filed.
It is unknown at this time whether the accused has provided a statement. However, the alleged victim can identify the accused and there is surveillance footage. It is likely a strong case for the state.
Eric Matheny is a Miami robbery attorney defending clients charged with robbery crimes in Miami-Dade County, Florida. You may contact Eric Matheny at (305) 504-6655