Sheriff: Suspects identified in assault and robbery in western Iredell County

FROM EMPLOYEE REPORTS

Two suspects have been identified in connection with a robbery and robbery that occurred earlier this month in western Iredell County.

Iredell County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a robbery at 706 Winterfield Road on Thursday, Nov. 14, Sheriff Darren Campbell said in a news release.

The victim reported she was attacked by two suspects, one of whom choked her until he passed out, the sheriff said. When the victim regained consciousness, she found her belongings scattered around and several items missing. According to the press release, the suspects fled in a white Toyota Camry.

Deputy Farr arrived on scene and observed visible injuries, including redness around the victim’s neck and lacerations to his arms and legs, Campbell said. Iredell County Emergency Medical Services personnel treated the victim at the scene.

The investigation was assigned to Detective Olson. Through the investigation, Corey David Combs, 45, of Cattlemans Road, Statesville, and Christopher Jordan Minier, 32, of Mount Ulla Highway, Mooresville, were identified as suspects in the case.

Based on the evidence and statements provided, Detective Olson obtained warrants charging Combs and Minter with assault by strangulation, kidnapping, common law robbery, and conspiracy

On Tuesday, November 19, Deputy Greene arrested Combs as he attempted to change into a wig and hat. Campbell said he was found with marijuana and drug paraphernalia, which led to additional misdemeanor charges.

Further investigation revealed that Combs had kidnapped another victim while evading arrest, forcing her to drive him to various high-risk locations, according to the press release. Campbell said that after the victim fled, Combs stole his vehicle and then fled to Alexander County.

Detective Olson obtained additional warrants charging Combs with kidnapping, theft of a motor vehicle, and misdemeanor communicating threats

Minier was not detained. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at (704) 878-3100.