Noah Leffingwell : “Siloam Springs Restaurant Robbery Suspect Enters Plea”

In a recent turn of events, Noah Leffingwell, a 20-year-old from Proctor, Oklahoma, has pleaded not guilty to charges relating to an alleged robbery at a Siloam Springs restaurant in May. The incident has sent shockwaves through Benton County, Arkansas.

Charges and Court Proceedings

According to court documents, Leffingwell faces a range of charges, including aggravated robbery, conspiracy to commit kidnapping, theft of property, aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of minors, interfering with emergency communications, and driving without insurance. Benton County Prosecuting Attorney Josh Robinson officially filed charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated assault, theft of property, and felony with a firearm on June 21. Leffingwell entered a plea of not guilty to all charges on June 26.

Details of the Incident

Police responded to a report of a robbery in progress at Barnett’s Dairyette on May 11. Witnesses reported a male suspect armed with a shotgun inside the restaurant, pointing it at employees and demanding money. The suspect, later identified as Leffingwell, had fled the scene in a red truck.

Law enforcement officers quickly located and detained Leffingwell. A search of his vehicle revealed a loaded 12-gauge shotgun, ammunition, clothing matching the suspect’s description, cash, duct tape, a notebook, and multiple phones. Security footage from the restaurant corroborated the events, showing Leffingwell brandishing the shotgun and demanding money from employees.

Confession and Motive

During questioning, Leffingwell admitted to planning the robbery on the day of the incident. He expressed frustration with his financial situation and stated that he was tired of being broke. Despite his actions, Leffingwell reportedly hoped that this would be a one-time occurrence and selected Barnett’s Dairyette as an “easier target.”

Legal Proceedings and Restrictions

Leffingwell is currently held on a $200,000 bond and is prohibited from contacting the staff or employees of Barnett’s Dairyette. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 25. The total value of theft during the incident is estimated to be $1,568.

Four employees who were either victims or witnesses to the robbery provided statements to the police. One employee recounted how Leffingwell demanded money but allowed them to keep a small amount when they only had $4 in their wallet.

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