Cherryville Police Detective Sgt. Mitchell and a third man went in and played the poker machines Monday night between 11 p.m. and midnight, while Hopper stayed outside, Burgin said. Mitchell acted like he was leaving but turned at the last second and did the robbery himself, Burgin said. After Neill handed Mitchell some money, Hopper entered the business and demanded more, which he got, Burgin said. It was really a senseless act.
Detectives are unsure how much money was taken.
Burgin expects to arrest Lipscomb on lesser charges Friday for his alleged involvement in the robbery and killing, following a review of the case by District Attorney Mike Lands. Police contacted Hopper by phone and asked him to turn himself in, but he refused, Burgin said. Late Wednesday night they were still looking for Hopper, who also faces first-degree murder and robbery with a dangerous weapon charges. All Rights Reserved.