Investigation indicates it was an alleged drug deal gone bad
It was a story that shocked the Habersham Community and outdoor lovers, alike. A reported armed robbery at the Cornelia Dog Park sparked a manhunt Monday that led to two arrests. Now, police say, the alleged victim lied.
Cornelia Police Chief Chad Smith says Hector Lee Elias reported being robbed but was actually at the dog park to sell drugs to the man he claimed robbed him.
Officers responded to Elias’ report of an armed robbery at 593 Front Street at 5:07 p.m. on Oct. 30. The initial 911 call included a description of the alleged suspect and the alleged victim’s claim that the suspect “flashed a gun to him and took an undisclosed amount of money.”
Cornelia Police and Habersham Sheriff’s K-9 units responded to the scene. After an hour long pursuit through the woods they arrested 19-year-old Jonqrez Tyrik Brantley and 21-year-old Desmond Brown. Brantley was bitten by the K-9 during the search and was treated at the Habersham Medical Center Emergency Room.
In a press release issued Wednesday morning, Chief Smith says, “Investigators determined that the victim, Hector L. Elias lied about the armed robbery. Elias, age 21, was there to sell drugs to Mr. Brantley when Brantley grabbed them and ran. Mr. Elias has been charged with false report of a crime, possession of a schedule II narcotic and distribution of a schedule II narcotic near or within 1000 feet of a public park.”
The release goes on to state that, during the apprehension of Brantley and Brown “two book bags were located with guns found in each. “The drugs that were taken from Mr. Elias were also located in one of the book bags.”
Brantley is charged with possession of a weapon during the commission of a crime, theft by taking, possession of a controlled substance and obstruction of an officer.
Brown is charged with possession of a weapon during the commission of a crime, possession of a controlled substance and obstruction of an officer.
“This case is still being investigated and further arrests are expected,” Chief Smith says. He adds, “This incident has caused uneasiness among the citizens that use the dog park and the walking trail. The City is taking steps to increase the amount of surveillance cameras within the park. Cameras only record; they do not offer immediate security. Citizens should Be Aware, Be Alert and Report any suspicious or criminal activity, no matter how insignificant.”
