PARAGOULD, Ark. — Local authorities have charged Lafayette Ellis with aggravated robbery, a Class Y felony, after a confrontation at the Dollar General located at 200 W. Main St. on Nov. 2. The incident, captured in video provided by a witness, involved a dispute over cash that was visible on the store floor.

Alleged sequence of events

According to an arrest affidavit, the witness told police that he and Ellis had arranged to meet at the store. The witness began placing cash that was in plain view into his pocket after Ellis entered a vehicle. Ellis then allegedly drew a handgun, pointed it at the witness’s head, and demanded the money. The witness says he managed to wrest control of the weapon and fled the scene.

Evidence and police response

Detective Corporal Tron Beesley noted that the witness supplied video that corroborates his account of the encounter. When police interviewed Ellis on Thursday, he acknowledged being present, possessing a handgun, and being involved in an altercation, though he did not admit to the robbery charge.

Legal proceedings

Greene County District Judge Curtis Hitt found probable cause for Ellis’s arrest. If released, Ellis will be required to wear an ankle monitor, refrain from possessing any weapons, and avoid contact with the witness, other suspects, and any witnesses in the case. The bond was set at $250,000.

Community impact

Paragould residents expressed concern over the safety of local retail spaces after the incident. While the Dollar General has not issued a public statement, store management confirmed cooperation with law enforcement and reiterated a commitment to a safe shopping environment.

Legal reminder

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The case remains under investigation, and additional charges could be filed pending further evidence.

Original reporting: NEA Report (Jonesboro) — read the source article.