Just seven short days following an armed robbery in South Zanesville, the criminal, Mason Williams, 22, faced swift and decisive justice. According to the Muskingum County Prosecutor's Office, by accepting a bill of information—opposed to awaiting a Grand Jury's decision—Williams promptly admitted his crimes and accepted a 13-year prison sentence. The felony first-degree charges include Aggravated Robbery with a Firearm and Forfeiture Specification, with an emphasis on the forfeiture of the firearm and the vehicle used in the commission of his crime.
Muskingum County Prosecutor Ron Welch detailed the rapid unfolding of the case: "From the time this crime occurred to the time the defendant entered a guilty plea was less than seven days," showcasing a high level of coordination between law enforcement and judicial authorities. Last Monday, at 9:29 pm, the Sheriff's Office received a call regarding an armed robbery. Williams, concealing his identity with a ski mask, entered a local business, armed with a handgun, and proceeded to rob and terrorize an underage clerk.
During the commission of the crime, a vigilant witness outside the business provided detailed information to the police, which enabled swift action. According to the Muskingum County Prosecutor's Office, this tip included Williams' vehicle license plate and the direction of his escape, leading to his rapid apprehension. Upon his arrest, Detective Sergeant Brady Hittle secured a full confession from Williams.
Judge Kelly Cottrill ruled over the case, delivering the sentence that ensures Williams will serve the mandatory 13 years.
