Smithfield Police are investigating a report from a Smithfield man that he was robbed near his home then physically assaulted minutes later at another location.
Around 10:00am last Monday, April 15th, the 56 year-old victim said he in the 600 block of East Johnston Street when he was approached by 3 unknown suspects who assaulted him and stole $250 in cash. The victim said the money had been given to him earlier by an acquaintance to take to the Johnston County Jail to bond out an inmate. During the robbery the man said he received minor injuries.
Minutes after the alleged robbery, the victim said he met the person who had given him the bail money in the 700 block of S. Brightleaf Boulevard. After explaining to the individual he had been robbed of the cash, he claims the person assaulted him causing additional minor injuries.
The victim reported both incidents to police. The victim also claimed he thought the robbery was gang-related but was unable to provide a thorough explanation as to why.
The case has been assigned to a detective to investigate.
Although injured in both alleged incidents the victim did not require medical treatment.
