17-year-old charged in downtown armed robbery; crime committed from bike

Online Staff Report

Robert J. Phinnessee, 17, of Rockford has been charged with armed robbery following an armed robbery Sept. 27 in the 100 block of North First Street in Rockford.

Shortly after 12:30 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 27, Rockford police responded to the 100 block of North First Street in reference to an armed robbery investigation. Officers were advised the suspect approached the victim riding an orange BMX-style bicycle, displayed a handgun and demanded the victim’s belongings.

Rockford Police detectives conducted a follow-up investigation and the Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office authorized the charge of armed robbery against Phinnessee.