Kentwood man charged in robbery

Published 5:00 am Monday, July 29, 2002

A Louisiana man is facing armed robbery charges after allegedlyholding up a convenience store on Brookway Boulevard early Saturdaymorning.

Derek P. Gilliland, 21, of 77468 Spring Road, Kentwood, La., wasarrested shortly after the incident, which was reported at theAmoco at 2:05 a.m. by a clerk working the counter at the time.

“The subject had approached the counter and pulled a gun on theclerk, demanding money from the cash register,” said BrookhavenPolice Chief Arlustra “Pap” Henderson.

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Gilliland had apparently walked into the store a few minutesearlier when several other customers were inside.

He allegedly walked to the soft drink cooler, then to thebathroom, before the store cleared and he walked to the counter,according to the police report.

“With good police work, we were able to apprehend him within 15minutes or less,” said Henderson.

Henderson praised the good observations of the clerk, who wasable to give a description of the suspect’s clothing andvehicle.

“The clerk paid very good attention. That really helps us out insolving crimes,” he said.

The maroon Cadillac driven by Gilliland was reported stolen inTangipahoa Parish, said Henderson.

“There was no struggle or resisting arrest once the officerspulled the car over,” said Henderson.

Brookhaven police officers spotted the vehicle within minutes ofit leaving the convenience store.

“I would like to commend the officers. They did a great job,”said Henderson.

Gilliland is being held in the Lincoln County Jail awaiting abond hearing scheduled for Monday.