3 armed bystanders stop attempted armed robbery in Georgia, police say
ELLIJAY, Ga. Jan 12 2023 A Georgia couple was arrested for trying to rob a convenience store at gunpoint, according to authorities.
The Ellijay Police Department said Shawn Sutton, 39, was charged with one count of armed robbery, one count of aggravated assault, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Police said Shawn Sutton entered an Ideal Mart posing as a customer, while his wife, Melody, 39, waited in a parked car outside the store Monday just before 6:30 p.m.
After buying an energy drink, Shawn Sutton pulled a pair of women’s panties from around his neck to cover his face, according to authorities.
Police said he then went behind the counter and pointed a .45 caliber pistol at the head of the store clerk and demanded money.
Authorities said a customer, who was legally carrying a concealed pistol, pulled out his gun and intervened.
Police said a second customer went to his car to get his pistol and returned to help to subdue the suspect.
Authorities said Shawn Sutton was attempting to leave when a third customer, who was also armed, also went inside to assist.
The first customer noticed Shawn Sutton had been disarmed and told the other customers not to shoot him.
Police then arrived at the scene and told Shawn Sutton to stop and get down and when the suspect refused, the officer tasered him and took him into custody.
Officers found Melody in the couple’s car and took her into custody without incident.
