A Lafayette man has been arrested in connection with an armed robbery investigation after police said a business on NW Evangeline Thruway was targeted late Saturday night.
According to the Lafayette Police Department, 31-year-old Troy Bernard was identified as the suspect following an investigation into the robbery, which happened near Chalmette Drive on May 16.
Police Responded to Armed Robbery Call
Authorities said officers were dispatched to a business on NW Evangeline Thruway shortly after 9 p.m. after receiving reports of an armed robbery.
By the time officers arrived at the scene, the suspect had already fled the area.
Investigators immediately began collecting evidence from the business and surrounding area in an effort to identify the person responsible.
Investigators Identified Troy Bernard as Suspect
According to police, evidence gathered during the investigation was later reviewed by Lafayette Police Department investigators.
Authorities eventually identified Troy Bernard of Lafayette as the suspect connected to the robbery.
Police later arrested Bernard and charged him with one count of first-degree robbery.
Officials have not publicly released details regarding what was allegedly taken during the incident or whether a weapon was recovered.
What Louisiana Law Says About First-Degree Robbery
Under Louisiana law, first-degree robbery involves taking something of value from another person through force or intimidation while making the victim reasonably believe the suspect is armed with a dangerous weapon.
Even if a weapon is not directly displayed, the crime can still qualify as first-degree robbery if the victim believed the suspect had a dangerous weapon during the incident.
The charge carries serious penalties under Louisiana law.
Charge Carries Severe Prison Sentence
Authorities noted that a conviction for first-degree robbery in Louisiana can result in a prison sentence ranging from three years to 40 years at hard labor.
The sentence must be served without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.
Officials have not yet announced court dates or additional details regarding Bernard’s case.
Robbery Investigations Continue Across Lafayette
Armed robbery cases remain a major focus for law enforcement agencies because of the risks they pose to business employees, customers, and the public.
Investigators often rely heavily on witness statements, surveillance footage, and physical evidence to identify suspects who flee before officers arrive at a crime scene.
The Lafayette Police Department has not indicated whether additional suspects could be involved in the robbery investigation.
