The Record Newspapers - Hometown News For Orange County, Texas

The Pinehurst Police Department has released the name of a person of interest in the aggravated robbery in the 3800 block of Pheasant Street following a Friday night football game on Sept. 14.

Keven Scott Holmes, 25, of Orange, is being sought for questioning in the case of a 16-year-old Orangefield cheerleader who was robbed at gunpoint.

“Based on tips from the community following the release of video footage from the convenience store as well as photographs obtained from prior arrests, Holmes is someone we would like to speak with in connection to this crime,” said Police Chief Fred R. Hanauer III.

The girl had stopped at a convenience store located in the 800 block of Strickland Drive when she was asked by a man and a woman, believed to be in their 30s, for a ride to a nearby trailer park. She agreed and after stopping to let the couple out, the man pulled a handgun out and ordered the girl to get out of the vehicle. He took her cell phone and purse which contained credit cards and an unknown amount of cash. He then drove off in her vehicle. It was later located in the east part of Orange. The girl was not injured during the robbery.

Holmes is said to have a tattoo “sleeve” on his left arm.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Holmes is asked to call the Pinehurst Police Department at 409-886-2221.

Aggravated Robbery is a first degree felony punishable by 5 to 99 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

To help protect the safety of other people, Hanauer has suggestions on how to avoid being victimized. First of all he says to never give rides to strangers. In addition, he offers;

• Don’t go out for walks alone. If you need fresh air and it’s late have someone accompany you.

• Make sure that someone knows where are headed and how late you expect to be out.

• Stay away from dark, isolated places.

• Walk under lights. Steer clear of dark places like unlit doorways, alleys, and bushes that make good hiding places for robbers.

• Hold your head and shoulders high. A confident person makes a bad choice for a victim.

• Be alert to the things going on around you.

• If you see something suspicious, report it.

• Leave the fancy jewelry and wad of cash at home or the bank. Don’t carry it around with you.

• If a robber tries to take your stuff, let him have it. Your life is more important.

• If you are confronted by a robber try to remember distinguishing characteristics. That way you can give the police a more accurate description.

“Follow your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.” Hanauer added.