A Lancaster man will face charges in county court for bounding his elderly roommate, then stealing the victim’s debit/credit cards, cellphone and car.
Aspen B. James, 40, appeared at District Judge David Miller’s courtroom Tuesday to waive a preliminary hearing on felony counts of robbery, theft (five counts), and misdemeanor counts of unlawful restraint and access device fraud.
James, at Lancaster County Prison on $75,000 bail, appeared to sign paperwork regarding the waiver, according to Assistant District Attorney Travis S. Anderson, lead prosecutor.
In turn, District Judge Miller ordered James face the charges in Lancaster County Court.
Manheim Township police Detective Christopher Dissinger outlines the offenses this way in an affidavit of probable cause:
The victim, an 81-year-old man, reported to police on June 22, 2017, that his roommate – identified as James – had tied him up with extension cord and stole some of his belongings, including a cellphone, credit cards and a debit card, and a 1999 Buick Regal sedan.
The victim was able to free himself from the cord; police observed marks on the man’s hands consistent with being tied up.
The victim told police James had lived with him at the Toll Gate Station home for about four months. James threatened to hurt him as he bound him with the cord.
Police determined James attempted purchases with the stolen cards. On June 23, 2017, the Buick was located by Philadelphia police – with James sleeping inside. James was taken into custody.
By waiving the preliminary hearing, James does not admit guilt, but concedes there is evidence to support charges.
James is presumed innocent.
MEDIA CONTACT: Brett A. Hambright, 717-295-2041; bhambright@co.lancaster.pa.us; Twitter: @BrettHambright