2 Accused Of Terrorizing War Veteran During Violent Home Invasion
WEST VINCENT Twp., Pa. (CBS) – Authorities have arrested two men following a violent home invasion in Chester County.
Officials say the victim, Donald Rehrman, a Korean War veteran, lives alone in an isolated area of West Vincent.
Authorities say the 81-year-old victim had used the suspect, 27-year-old Zachary Hails, to do repairs on his home in the past. During that time, authorities say Hails observed where the victim kept his cash in his home.
Authorities say Hails and a second suspect, John Reeves, 24, hatched a plan to steal money from the elderly victim.
On July 26, the victim answered a knock on his door around 7:15 p.m. Authorities say a male wearing a baseball cap told the man there was a problem with water in the basement.
Officials say the male, later identified as Reeves, shoved through the front door, grabbed the victim by his arms, and demanded to know where he kept his money.
Authorities say Reeves then shoved the veteran onto the bed and covered him with blankets. He allegedly threatened to shoot him if he moved from the bed.
Reeves then allegedly punched the victim in the head and torso before running from the home.
Authorities say Hails was waiting for Reeves in a vehicle outside.
The victim immediately called the police for help. The suspects are accused of taking $400 cash, a laptop, prescription pain medication, credit cards and jewelry belonging to the victim's late wife.
Authorities say after the robbery, the suspects went to Kensington to buy drugs with the stolen money.
District Attorney Hogan stated, "These cowardly criminals targeted an elderly man living alone because they thought of him as a vulnerable victim. They terrorized a peaceful and law-abiding citizen to fuel their need for drugs. This was an assault not only on the victim, but on our way of life in Chester County. We will not stand for it."
Authorities say an investigation determined Hails' vehicle was seen in the area of the victim's home at the time of the robbery. Phone records revealed there was contact between the two suspects prior to the robbery. Cell phone tower information put the suspects at the victim's home during the robbery, then in the Kensington area after the robbery where they used the proceeds from the robbery to buy heroin.
The suspects have been charged with robbery, conspiracy, terroristic threats, simple assault, and related offenses.
West Vincent Police Chief Michael Swininger says, "West Vincent Township Police and Chester County Detectives spent countless hours following up on every tip received from the public. Two of those tips and the officers' diligence to solve a heinous crime committed against a senior citizen led to the apprehension of these defendants. This is an excellent example of how important communication between the police and the community is to solving crimes. The West Vincent Township Police Department would like to thank all the individuals who came forward and provided vital information."
The suspects are currently at Chester County Prison on $150,000 cash bail each.
