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Tips help deputies capture suspected Caldwell Co. store robber

CALDWELL COUNTY, N.C. — Tips from the Dudley Shoals community helped the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office arrest a man who they said terrorized a clerk during a store robbery Thursday morning.

Isaiah Simmons, 20 faces several charges, including robbery with a dangerous weapon and false imprisonment.

Investigators said Simmons went into Pappy’s Market on Dudley Shoals Road shortly after the business opened, carrying a long rifle. They said he stole items before forcing the clerk into a back room and then fleeing in a white sedan.

“He said, ‘Give me all the money,’ is exactly what he said. ‘Give me all of it, hurry hurry!’ Then he proceeded down that aisle there with the rifle pointed at me, told me to get in the back room, and I did,” said store owner Robert Yount.

Yount was not hurt during the crime.

Patrol officers said when they approached Simmons' house Thursday afternoon, they saw him get into his car and drive off. Officers said they knew he was driving with a revoked license and pulled him over. They said they found drugs in the car, and obtained a search warrant for his house.

Investigators said they were able to recover some of the clothing they believe was worn during the robbery.

“We want the public to know how thankful we are for all the tips and information that we received as we worked this case yesterday,” Caldwell County Sheriff's Capt. Aaron Barlowe said. “It was the determination of the residents to protect their community that helped give us the information we needed. Our investigators and patrol division worked together seamlessly to solve this case.”

Simmons is being held under a $102,000 bond in the Caldwell County Jail.

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