Markleysburg woman suspected in three Fayette County robberies
The suspect in a robbery at the Walgreens in Uniontown has been charged for two other robberies in the Connellsville area.
Tom Kolencik, the public information officer for Uniontown police, said Lori Ann Rankin allegedly confessed to the Thursday robbery after she was arrested by state police Friday.
“She did two robberies in Connellsville and admitted to ours,” Kolencik said.
The robbery at Walgreens occurred at about 10:25 p.m. Thursday. According to Kolencik, the suspect approached the counter and demanded money while holding her hand as though she had a weapon. However, the employee never saw a weapon.
On Friday police agencies filed two cases of felony robbery against Rankin, 39, of Markleysburg. Connellsville police filed charges against her for an incident that occurred in the city, while state police filed charges for an alleged robbery in Connellsville Township.
Connellsville police Sgt. Bryan Kendi said Rankin is accused of robbing the Dunkin’ Donuts at 628 Highland Ave. According to Kendi, Rankin made off with the tip jar. Employees did not see Rankin in possession of a weapon.
“I believe that she feigned like she had one,” Kendi said.
According to Kendi, in Connellsville Township Rankin is suspected of attempting to rob the Dollar General at 143 N. Eighth St.
Rankin was arraigned Friday night before District Judge Daniel Shimshock, who sent her to the Fayette County jail without bond. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Oct. 21.
Kolencik said Uniontown police would file charges against Rankin this week.