Shortly after the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office released the video on Wednesday of the suspects using the victim’s debit card at the Canton Wal-mart, detectives began to receive information on their Facebook page about the identities of those shown.
Investigators were able to determine that two of the suspects lived at an apartment complex in Canton. And when investigators arrived at the location all four suspects from the video were present.
Kenneth Piper, 26, Heather Fernandez, 27, Willie Collins, 26, and Mason Thompson, 27, were arrested and have all been charged with armed robbery and financial transaction fraud.
Maj. Ron Hunton with the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office said Thursday afternoon the investigation remains open and there is still a lot of work for investigators in the case.
According to a warrant,
a search of the apartment discovered the victim’s purse, a 9mm handgun and three red bandanas believed to be used in the robbery.
Investigators also found receipts where the suspects had used the victim’s debit card at other businesses in Canton.
The cash stolen in the robbery has not been recovered.
The investigation remains ongoing, Hunton said.
Investigators are still attempting to determine why the suspects chose to rob the specific location on Rampley Trail. Additional charges are likely and more arrests are possible.
Hunton also said the people involved with the crime were dangerous and warned residents to make sure they practice safe habits in their homes.
“We don’t have that many armed home invasions, but unfortunately in our society today, crimes of this nature are becoming more common,” Hunton said.
“Residents should always keep their doors locked even, when at home,” Hunton said. “Don’t allow anyone in that you do not know and don’t hestitate to call law enforcement if you feel uncomfortable when someone unknown shows up at your door.”
The four suspects are in custody at the Cherokee Adult Detention Center without bond.
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