COLUMBIA — Columbia police arrested two men Friday afternoon on suspicion of attempting to rob a taxi driver Monday in eastern Columbia.
Javone A. Robinson, 20, and Rickie Ray Furlong, 23, both of Columbia, were arrested on suspicion of second-degree robbery in connection with an incident on the 1500 block of University Avenue, according to a police news release.
Police said Robinson played the role of the passenger and called the taxi company to request a ride early Monday morning. When the taxi arrived at the 1500 block of University Avenue, Robinson got inside and Furlong approached the cab with a gun and demanded money. After the driver denied having any money, Robinson acted like a victim and gave Furlong money. Furlong then fled the area.
The gun Furlong used was a pellet or BB gun that Robinson had provided, according to the release.
As of Saturday afternoon, Robinson and Furlong were being held in the Boone County Jail on a $20,000 bond.
— Missourian staff