Man charged with trying to rob discount store has prelim set

A Cape Girardeau man arrested earlier this month will see if prosecutors can prove probable cause at a preliminary hearing set for next month.

Phil Mattingly, 44, had his initial arraignment Monday before Judge Gary Kamp. Mattingly stands charged with first-degree attempted robbery and a weapons charge that carries a possible life sentence. Kamp set a preliminary hearing for 1 p.m. March 6. If prosecutors make their case, Mattingly -- already on probation for an unrelated charge -- will be ordered to stand trial.

Mattingly remained in custody Monday on a $100,000 bond after police said he tried to rob a cashier at Dollar General, 64 S. Plaza Way, at knife point the night of Feb. 3. The would-be robber, according to the cashier, fled when another employee returned from a break.

Pertinent address:

100 Court St., Jackson, Mo.

64 S. Plaza Way, Cape Girardeau, Mo.