Fayetteville man charged with robbing elderly couple

According to investigators, Sonny Stetson forced his way into the home, in the 2500 block of Southern Avenue, at about 7 p.m. armed with a pair of hedge shears. 

After entering the home, Stetson placed the shears to the neck of an 81-year-old woman and threatened to kill her if her husband, an 84-year-old man, did not produce money, police said. Stetson then went through the man's pockets, took money and forced the couple into a bathroom in the home. 

Investigators said Stetson then took more money from the home before leaving. Authorities said Stetson knew the couple and had recently rented a property near their home. 

Stetson is charged with robbery with a dangerous weapon, two counts of second-degree kidnapping and one count of first-degree burglary. Investigators said Stetson is known to frequent areas in and around Massey Hill. He should be considered armed and dangerous. 

Stetson was arrested in January 2013 for robbing a chocolate shop on Hay Street. Investigators said he took money from a cash register at The Chocolate Lady before forcing an employee into a closet inside the store. 

Anyone with information concerning Stetson's whereabouts should call the Fayetteville Police Department at 910-433-1856 or Crime Stoppers at 910-483-8477.