A Sedalia man has been convicted of a robbery of a convenience store.

According to a release from Pettis County Prosecutor Phillip Sawyer, on January 15, 2020, an individual attempting to conceal his identity entered Casey’s General Store, located at 716 West 16th Street in Sedalia. After making his way past a customer in the store, he brandished a hand hatchet or small axe-type instrument, eventually striking the cash register as he demanded the cash from the store.

Sedalia Police officers were able to promptly develop and contact a suspect located at his home. A search of the suspect’s home and subsequent canvas of the area by officers and detectives yielded multiple items of evidentiary value.

Freddie M. Thomas Jr., age 52, of Sedalia, was arrested and charged with robbery in the first degree, armed criminal action and unlawful use of a weapon.

On July 14, 2022, a Pettis County jury heard evidence on the matter. After hearing testimony from four law-enforcement officers, one eyewitness and a lab tech with the Missouri State Highway Patrol Crime Lab that ultimately connected Thomas to articles of evidence located through his DNA, the Jury found Thomas guilty as charged on all counts.

Prior to commencement of the trial and outside of the hearing of the Jury, as required by law, the defendant was found to be a prior and persistent felony offender with priors for robbery, stealing and controlled substances. As such, the defendant will face an extended term of imprisonment, and the Circuit Court will determine sentencing after hearing arguments from the prosecutor and defense counsel.

Sentencing has been scheduled for Wednesday, September 7, at Pettis County Circuit Court.