NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WKBW) — Town of Tonawanda Police say they've assisted the North Tonawanda Police department with an arrest last night in connection to a robbery at a gas station.
The robbery occurred around 7:40 pm Wednesday at the Gulf Express Mart on Main Street. Police say a man entered the store wearing a black mask, displayed a hand gun and threatened the clerk while demanding money.
The money was turned over and the suspect fled on foot.
Police say information came to light about a vehicle that was involved, leading them to the area of Richie Avenue. Officers arrested 45 year-old Justin Robert Jenkins and 45-year-old Heather Marie Jenkins around 10:17 p.m. Justin Jenkins was charged with robbery in the second degree, menacing in the second degree and petit larceny. Heather Jenkins was charged with robbery in the second degree.
When asked if this incident is connected to multiple robberies in surrounding areas, the Town of Tonawanda Police Lieutenant Thomas Haynes said, "The investigation remains ongoing and as soon as we have anything put out, we will do so. Thank you all for your cooperation, patience and understanding."
The Jenkins' were arraigned in North Tonawanda Court on Thursday.
Mary James is Heather Jenkins mother. She says her daughter got caught up with the wrong man. The pair have been married for two years, and James says Justin has been hooked on drugs during that time.
“He would rob everyone, not only her but my granddaughter who has special needs,” Mary James said. “She was scared,” she said of her daughter. “He would beat her.”
James does not believe her daughter has any involvement in the crime, and says Justin is addicted to drugs.
The pair pleaded not guilty and are due back in court March 18.
