The Covington Police Department has apprehended two individuals involved in the robbery of an ice cream truck driver last weekend, with a third suspect still at large. According to Action News 5, the incident took place at the Broadmeadows Apartments along Peeler Road in Covington, where the driver was reportedly ambushed by multiple assailants aiming to take his tip jar.
A photograph provided by the victim aided officers in identifying two of the three suspects. A 17-year-old, whose name has not been disclosed due to his age, was captured after he attempted to elude police. Arrested in an undisclosed area, the teen faced charges of criminal impersonation and robbery, among others. Wrongfully trying to hide his identity and smoking a cigarette at the time of apprehension added to his charges. The Covington Police Department on social media mentioned the Tipton County Youth Service Officer's decision to outfit the juvenile with an ankle monitor pending his court appearance.
Meanwhile, Larenzion Cooper, 25, of Memphis faced his own set of charges after being apprehended while allegedly shoplifting at the Mapco gas station, as reported by the Covington Police Department. Cooper also attempted an escape but was quickly detained by officers. Charges against him included robbery, evading arrest, shoplifting, and vandalism.
Covington Police Chief Donna Turner praised the swift actions of the CPD officers in a statement, saying, "I commend the swift work of the CPD Officers to nab two of the suspects." As the investigation proceeds, authorities continue to work on identifying the third suspect. Chief Turner made a call for the third suspect to surrender, suggesting that it would be in his best interest to turn himself in. In a mix-up of words, the department's social media post attempted humor by saying they were on the third suspect’s “Rocky Road” trail.
As conveyed by the local police, the driver is a "beloved" fixture, and the brazenness of the crime has struck a chord with residents. Those with information related to the case are encouraged to share tips with the Covington Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division at 901-475-1261 or through their official channels.
