Man charged in armed robbery accepts plea deal
Although probation is available under the terms of a plea agreement, a judge still has the option to impose a prison sentence on the man charged in the robbery of a Yuma restaurant.
During what was a change of plea hearing before Superior Court Judge Roger Nelson, Ricky David Spencer, who remains in custody on $100,000 bond, pleaded guilty Thursday morning to a modified count of attempted armed robbery.
In return for his guilty plea, one count of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and one count of armed robbery against him were dismissed.
In explaining the terms of the plea agreement to him, Judge Nelson told Spencer he could receive a prison sentence ranging from two years to eight years and nine months, with the presumptive sentence being 3-1/2 years if convicted. Probation was also available.
The plea also stipulates Spencer must pay $435 in restitution. Judge Nelson then set sentencing for 8:30 a.m. on Nov. 2. Spencer’s trial, which was set to begin later this month was also vacated.
According to Yuma police, at approximately 3:45 p.m., officers responded to an armed robbery call from the Del Pueblo Birrieria at 1225 W. 8th St.
The investigation into the robbery revealed a male in his 20s, heavy set with a shaved head, wearing a black sweater and sunglasses, entered the business and demanded money.
When the victim questioned if he was attempting to rob the place, the suspect, believed to be Spencer, pulled a handgun and demanded the money again.
The suspect took an undisclosed amount of cash and fled.
Video surveillance was obtained from a nearby camera and still photographs taken from the video were circulated through the police department and an officer was able to identify Spencer as the suspect.