Hampton, Va. – Hampton police have charged a Norfolk man with robbery after an incident on West Mercury Blvd., police tell NewsChannel 3.
It happened on Wednesday, March 12. At 1:51 a.m., police received a call regarding a robbery in the first block of West Mercury Blvd. When officers arrived, they discovered that the victim, a 38-year-old New York man, was approached by the suspect whom brandished a knife and demanded money.
Police tell NewsChannel 3 the suspect, identified as 49-year old Bi Chao Chen, took an undisclosed amount of money, a wallet, and credit cards from the victim and then drove away from the area in a silver Acura.
Helping the Hampton Police Department, Norfolk police obtained search warrants of Chen’s home on Willoughby Bay Avenue. Armed officers swarmed the Oceanview neighborhood and ultimately the suspect was arrested.
Those who live nearby are grateful this man is off the streets.
“I wasn`t here this morning when it happened, but I was a little nervous knowing someone was right next door,” said neighbor Barbara Bobenhausen.
The victim was not injured during the incident, and the relationship between the suspect and victim is unknown at this time, police say.
He is currently in the custody of Hampton Police, but will be transferred to the Hampton City Jail where he will be charged with one count of robbery and one count of use of a knife in commission of a felony.
Stay with NewsChannel 3 as updates become available.
