Suspect arrested in connection with two armed robberies

Cape Girardeau police have arrested a suspect in connection with two armed robberies and a theft that occurred last month.

Damarius A. Wells, 17, of Kennett, Mo., was arrested Thursday and charged with two counts of first-degree robbery and one count of armed criminal action. On Feb. 17, he reportedly displayed a handgun in stealing cash and cell phones from two victims at about 11:30 p.m. in the 300 block of Broadway.

Friday, authorities charged Wells with stealing from the Cup 'N' Cork, 46 N. Main St. He reportedly stole money from the establishment's tip jar Feb. 19.

Wells is in the city jail on a $100,000 bond for the felony charges and a $2,500 bond for the stealing charge.

According to the probable-cause statements, on Feb. 17 Wells fired a handgun after demanding the cash and cell phones. One victim gave Wells what he wanted, but the other refused to do so.

Wells fled after that and on March 5, a man told police he had been in the vicinity when the two victims were robbed and knew the suspect. The witness told police he heard the gunshot and Wells say something to the effect of "give me your money," the report said.

Wells was picked out of a photo lineup by a Cup 'N' Cork employee who was present when the theft from the tip jar took place, according to the probable-cause statement.

carel@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 127