A Galesburg man and woman are facing multiple charges in Knox County following an alleged violent robbery in Abingdon on Aug. 25.
At 7:12 p.m. that evening, Knox County deputies were dispatched to a residence on Jared Street for a report of a burglary in progress. Before arriving, deputies were advised the suspects had left the scene.
Upon arrival, the resident of the home was found with his face bloodied and swollen and was taken to St. Mary’s Medical Center for treatment.
Speaking with deputies, the victim said he had been at a local tavern at about 2 p.m. that day, drinking and playing slot machines. While taking a cigarette break outside, he said the suspects — identified as Anthony J. Williams, 48, and Mandy L. Bailey, 49, both of Galesburg — arrived at the tavern. He told deputies he bought them drinks and returned inside to resume playing slots.
The victim said that while all three were at the tavern, he gave Williams $20 to “leave him alone” and that Williams tried to sell him cannabis and “a night with” Bailey, which he declined.
He told deputies he later left the tavern while Williams and Bailey were still there. Later, while at home and letting his dog outside, he said Bailey pulled into his driveway in a red vehicle and asked for his Wi-Fi password. He refused, and Bailey left.
The victim said he then discovered Williams standing in his hallway, holding a shotgun. He told deputies Williams attacked him, punching him multiple times and striking him in the ribs with the butt of the shotgun. Williams then took about $500 from the victim’s pockets, pointed the gun at him and threatened to kill him. The victim said he lay on the floor until he heard the suspects leave, then called 911.
The victim suffered four broken ribs and facial fractures in the attack, according to the police report.
The suspects were later located and arrested.
On Aug. 28, both Williams and Bailey were charged in Knox County Court.
Williams is charged with Class X felony armed robbery, armed violence and home invasion causing injury; Class 1 felony residential burglary; Class 2 felony aggravated battery causing great bodily harm to a victim age 60 or older; Class 3 felony aggravated battery to a victim age 60 or older and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon; and Class 4 felony possession of a controlled substance.
Bailey is charged with Class X felony armed robbery, armed violence and home invasion causing injury; Class 1 felony residential burglary; Class 2 felony aggravated battery causing great bodily harm to a victim age 60 or older; and Class 3 felony aggravated battery to a victim age 60 or older and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
Williams remains in custody at the Knox County Jail, while Bailey has been released from custody with conditions. Their next court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 3.
Defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
