Published: November 06, 2009 06:04 pm      

New Albany men charged in armed robbery

One arrested, one wanted on two felony charges

A New Albany man has been arrested for an armed robbery that reportedly occurred last month on the 1300 block of East Market Street.

Robert Bellamy, 48, and his nephew, 20-year-old Corbin A. Starks, of New Albany, allegedly entered the residence, displayed a handgun and demanded money. The men reportedly left with $2,500 in cash.

According to a probable cause affidavit, the victim said he became involved in a struggle with one of the robbers and pulled down his mask. He said he recognized the robber as Bellamy, later identified through a photo lineup.

Bellamy reportedly told police his nephew picked him up to do some roofing work but wanted to stop at a friend’s house. He said his nephew gained entrance into the residence with a key, but when they were inside, the nephew reportedly pulled out a gun and demanded money.

Bellamy said he was actually trying to protect the victim because he thought Starks was going to shoot the man. There is no mention of how Bellamy explained why he was wearing a mask.

A warrant was issued for Bellamy and Starks on Oct. 29. Bellamy was arrested Wednesday, while Starks is reportedly still wanted. Starks has pending charges for receiving stolen property and carrying a handgun without a license.

Both men are charged with armed robbery and burglary while armed with a deadly weapon, both class B felonies.

Bellamy appeared in Floyd Count Superior Court No. 1 on Thursday. Judge Susan Orth ordered him to be held in jail for 15 days without bond. A public defender will be appointed, and a jury trial was set for March 8.