A concerted altercation at the Elizabeth Duff Transit Center has led to a man's arrest after he allegedly tried to rob a man in a wheelchair. WSMV reported that 25-year-old James Claybrooks became embroiled in a struggle with the disabled man outside the downtown WeGo station around 10 p.m. on Tuesday. The man in the wheelchair, attempting to purchase a gift card from Claybrooks for $10, fell to the street during the skirmish.
Caught by security cameras, Claybrooks, after realizing the man had $80 on him, attempted to forcibly take it, causing the man to defend his cash vehemently while falling from his chair. Found by police later on Seventh Avenue North and Commerce Street, Claybrooks was arrested and charged with attempted robbery, assault, and drug possession. According to the officers' report, a Suboxone pill was discovered during a search of his person.
Adding to the incident details, FOX17 notes that the victim, was subsequently hospitalized for medical evaluation after Claybrooks allegedly hit him and knocked him out of his wheelchair. In his defense, Claybrooks denied the robbery to the officers, insisting the confrontation stemmed from a disagreement over the gift card's price.
Following the event, Claybrooks, who faced multiple charges, gave up on the robbery but not before kicking the victim in the head, according to police reports. Sharing reports of the incident, FOX17 confirmed the man's arrest, underscoring the increasing concerns regarding safety at public transportation hubs.
