Suspect pleads not guilty to committing two robberies

A city resident accused of committing two robberies, one with a knife, pleaded not guilty Tuesday in Superior Court in Torrington.

Brandon Raymundo, of 708 Prospect St., was arrested Nov. 29 and charged in connection with the two events.

Raymundo allegedly robbed the La Cuencanita Grocery Store on Main Street Nov. 5, Torrington police said.

“A male suspect wearing a sweater over his face entered the store and demanded money. The suspect threatened the clerk and was able to squeeze through a small opening on the counter to access the cash register. The suspect fled on foot,” said Torrington Police Lieutenant Bart Barown at the time. “There were no reported injuries, no weapons displayed. Torrington Police Detectives conducted an investigation and identified the suspect as Brandon Raymundo.”

In connection with that incident, Raymundo was charged with seconddegree robbery, fourthdegree larceny, and second-degree threatening.

Raymundo also allegedly robbed a woman near the McDonald's on Main Street in August 2016, according to police.

“In that incident a female was walking in the area of McDonald’s on Main (Street) when a male suspect approached her, displayed a knife and forcibly pulled her purse from her and fled on foot,” said Barown. “The victim sustained minor injuries.”

In connection with this incident, he was charged with first-degree robbery, third-degree assault, and second-degree breach of peace.

According to affidavits seeking a warrant for his arrest, Raymundo acknowledged committing both robberies while speaking with Torrington police. He said he stole the purse to get money to purchase crack cocaine, and that “the devil” told him to commit the robbery at La Cuencanita, according to the affidavits.

Raymundo was considered a suspect in the months following the August 2016 incident, but had denied knowledge of the stolen purse at the time and did not show up for an appointment to give his fingerprints and a DNA sample.

A not guilty plea was entered on his behalf Tuesday. Defense attorney Julie Costello said she was awaiting discovery in the case.

Judge John A. Danaher III referred him to the medical unit to receive any necessary or available services.

Raymundo is scheduled to next appear in court Jan. 12.

Raymundo