Las Cruces Police arrested a man suspected of wrestling away $130 in cash from his 75-year-old grandmother.
Antonio Esparza, 23, is charged with felony counts of robbery and false imprisonment. He’s also charged with misdemeanor counts of battery against a household member and interference with communications.
Police were dispatched to the report of a disorderly man on the 700 block of Pinon Street at about 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 6.
Investigators learned that Esparza, who is said to have a drug problem, went to his 75-year-old grandmother’s home seeking money. When the woman refused to give him money, Esparza allegedly became angry and started throwing items, looking for money inside the residence.
Esparza is then alleged to have thrown his grandmother on a bed and held her down while he tried to find the cash she was carrying. Investigators learned the woman struggled and repeatedly told Esparza to stop, but he refused to do so. He also took away her cell phone when she tried to call for help.
Investigators learned that Esparza finally found the women’s money and stole $130 from her before leaving the house. Officers arrived in time to find Esparza outsider her residence.
The woman was not seriously injured during the incident.
Esparza was booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center where he’s initially being held without bond.
Information from Las Cruces Police