Around 11:30 p.m. on a Sunday, Melvin Mitchell grabbed a pack of gum and walked to a cashier at a Paulding County Walmart. He paid for the gum.
But when the cashier opened the register drawer, Mitchell held up his shirt to reveal a handgun tucked into his waistband, according to investigators. He threatened to harm the woman if she didn’t hand over cash.
That was in October 2017. Four days later, Mitchell was arrested after detectives found the clothes he’d worn during the armed robbery and his getaway car at his Dallas home, according to Sgt. Ashley Henson with the Paulding sheriff’s office.
Late last month, Mitchell was convicted of armed robbery, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of marijuana and driving without a license.
Mitchell was sentenced to 25 years, including 13 in prison and the remainder on probation, Henson said.
“We need to make sure that all of our citizens are always vigilant and aware of their surroundings whether at work, while traveling, or at home,” Sheriff Gary Gulledge said in an emailed statement. “And as always, if you suspect criminal activity in your area, contact 911 or the proper authorities to report it.”
Despite the evidence, Mitchell maintained his innocence during his trial, Henson said.
Mitchell remained Friday afternoon in the Paulding jail. It was not known where he would serve his prison time.
In other news:
About the Author
