Parking Lot Robbery
Teens Charged After Robbing, Attacking South Carolina Man with Genetic Condition
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Christopher Holdt, a well-known South Carolina man with a genetic condition, was attacked and robbed in a shopping center parking lot. Two teens came up from behind, punched him, and stole his cash, Holdt said. WBTV reported that the Anderson County Sheriff's Office arrived to find several bystanders already helping the seriously injured man.
Four suspects have now been arrested in connection with the attack. Charges range from armed robbery to accessory after the fact, according to Live 5 News.
Holdt Describes Being Punched and Robbed From Behind
Holdt told investigators that two teens snuck up behind him in the parking lot. They punched him and grabbed his cash before fleeing. "They punched me," Holdt said, describing the attack. He was left seriously injured on the ground until bystanders stepped in to help, according to Atlanta News First.
The Anderson County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene and launched an investigation. Officers quickly identified several suspects tied to the robbery. Witnesses at the scene played a key role in helping law enforcement piece together what happened, WABI TV reported.
Four Suspects Charged, Including Two 17-Year-Olds Tried as Adults
Two 17-year-old suspects were charged as adults. Their charge is accessory after the fact, meaning they are accused of helping the attackers get away by serving as the getaway driver. Charging teens as adults is reserved for more serious cases, according to WNDU.
A third suspect, identified as Kenneth Croegaert, faces the most serious charges. He was charged with armed robbery and assault and battery by mob. A fourth suspect, a juvenile, will be handled through the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice, WVVA reported.
Community Rallies Around Well-Known Local Figure
Holdt is described as a well-known figure in his South Carolina community. His genetic condition was not specified in reports, but sources note he is widely recognized locally. The attack drew significant public attention and concern from neighbors and community members, according to KWTX.
The swift arrests suggest strong community cooperation with investigators. Bystanders who rushed to Holdt's aid in the parking lot may have also helped identify the suspects. The Anderson County Sheriff's Office has not yet released a full timeline of the investigation, Fox 10 noted.
Armed Robbery and Mob Assault Charges Signal Serious Case
The charge of assault and battery by mob is a specific South Carolina charge. It applies when a group of people acts together to attack someone. Combined with the armed robbery charge, Croegaert faces the possibility of significant prison time if convicted, according to WILX.
The two teens charged as adults also face adult penalties despite their age. Prosecutors chose to charge them in adult court, which typically means they believe the case is serious enough to warrant harsher potential sentencing. The case remains active, WMTV reported.
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