Brokhaven honors cops for thwarting heist

BROOKHAVEN >> Police Chief Matthew Kurten and Mayor Mike Hess presented certificates of appreciation to Police Officers Ben Kiler and Jonathan Zebley (Brookhaven), Luke McCann and John Zebley (Upland), and Sgt. Mike Montgomery and Officer Matthew Liss (Nether Providence) for their role in the apprehension of four individuals who were allegedly robbing the Walgreens on Edgmont Avenue.

At 4:22 a.m., on June 6, four males entered the Walgreens on Edgmont Avenue. seeking to rob the business of drugs and cash.

At the time there were two employees and two customers in the store. One of the four suspects remained outside as a lookout. One of the others proceeded to the rear where the pharmacy is located. The suspect allegedly forced an employee to open the safe where narcotics were kept. After taking the drugs, the suspects jumped over the counter and attempted to flee the scene.

A witness was observed on the phone by the alleged perpetrator. A 911 call was made. Brookhaven officers Kiler and Zebley arrived on the scene within one minute of the call.

As they made a turn into the store the alleged defendant fled from the rear of the building. There was a hostage situation, the defendant grabbed an employee and believing the witness was in danger, Zebley discharged his firearm one time, striking

24-year-old Jonathan E. Jones, who was ultimately treated for his injuries.

Kiler sustained a leg injury and is still recovering. Upland officers McCann and Zebley arrived and helped take the suspects into custody.

Police later arrested

25-year-old Lorenzo Ross,

35-year-old Derrick Ross,

19-year-old Derek L. Stevens and Jones. All four men were charged with robbery and criminal conspiracy to commit the same.

“We always help each other,” said Kurten. “Nether Providence officers Montgomery and Liss responded without even being summoned. They secured the crime scene and directed resources. This incident required a multi-jurisdictional response and resulted in all defendants being arrested on the scene and all property being recovered.”

Kurten said that all of the suspects, who are from the Washington, D.C., and Virginia area, remain in custody and are awaiting trial.

“These officers deserve a lot of credit,” said Brookhaven Mayor Mike Hess. “They put their lives in the line for this community and we appreciate and salute them.”