Florida Man Sentenced to Four Years in Prison After Taco Bell Robbery in Ocala Involving Large Rock and K-9 Search
OCALA, FLORIDA — A Florida man has been sentenced to four years in state prison following a bizarre and dangerous armed robbery at a Taco Bell in Ocala, where authorities say he used a large rock as a weapon before fleeing the scene and hiding behind a dumpster, only to be located by police K-9 units.
Armed Robbery at Ocala Taco Bell
According to court records, Kewarren Lee Anderson, 40, forced his way into a Taco Bell restaurant in Ocala, Florida, entering through the drive-thru window while holding a large rock. Investigators say Anderson began demanding money from employees and customers, creating panic inside the restaurant.
Police reported that employees and customers were chased out of the building, leaving the suspect alone inside for a short period before he fled. Authorities later stated it remains unclear whether any money was taken, but the actions met the legal threshold for armed robbery due to the use of a dangerous object.
Police K-9 Units Track Suspect
After fleeing the Taco Bell, Anderson attempted to avoid capture by hiding behind a dumpster nearby. Officers from the Ocala Police Department, assisted by K-9 units, tracked him down shortly afterward.
Body camera footage released by police reportedly shows Anderson crying and shouting as the police dog approached during the arrest. He was taken into custody without further incident and transported to jail for booking.
Additional Jailhouse Battery Charge
Court documents reveal that just six hours after his arrest, Anderson was involved in a physical altercation with another incarcerated individual while in custody. As a result, authorities filed an additional charge of battery, compounding his legal troubles.
Investigators noted that Anderson told officers he was homeless at the time of the robbery and claimed he needed money, though prosecutors argued that the explanation did not justify the level of violence and threat involved.
Court Ruling and Sentence
On January 22, Anderson was found guilty of armed robbery and battery. The judge sentenced him to four years in Florida state prison, citing the seriousness of the offense, the danger posed to restaurant workers and customers, and the subsequent jailhouse incident.
Officials emphasized that using any object as a weapon, including a rock, qualifies as armed robbery under Florida law when it places victims in fear of serious harm.
Broader Concerns About Violent Crimes
Law enforcement officials say the case highlights ongoing concerns about violent crimes involving unconventional weapons and the risks faced by fast-food workers, especially during late-night hours. Police continue to encourage businesses to maintain strong security measures and urge individuals experiencing homelessness or financial hardship to seek community assistance programs rather than resorting to violence.
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