Police: Elderly man pushed in basement, robbed

STATESVILLE, N.C. — A man listed as one of Statesville's most wanted is now in custody after he allegedly robbed a 79-year old man.

Griffin was added to the Statesville Police Department's Most Wanted list after being brought up on charge for assault inflicting serious bodily injury.

Police said the elderly man was working in his yard on Brandon Street Thursday when James Griffin, 31, forced him into his basement and stole his wallet.

According to our newspaper partner, the Statesville Record and Landmark, a man in a white shirt and black pants with a T-shirt covering his face approached the victim in his yard.

Griffin allegedly grabbed the man and demanded his wallet. After struggling with the Griffin, the elderly man was pushed into his basement and was robbed, according to the report.

Officers said Griffin attempted to go upstairs, the victim was able to lock the basement door before Griffin could escape.

The elderly man activated the alarm and waited for police to arrive and apprehend Griffin.


Officer Darren Bumgarner saw Griffin and chased him for a little while before catching him.

After searching the area, officers were not able to find the victim's wallet.

WSOC