MEMPHIS, Tenn. — An 89-year-old East Memphis man is recovering after two men forced their way into his home on Devon Way, North of Walnut Grove.
Police got a break and arrested one of the criminals, Leonard Henderson because the victim recognized him as someone he hired to do some work recently.
Neighbors were alerted to the crime through a social network they belonged to.
They said they won’t feel safe till the other suspect is behind bars as well.
Old Glory still waved outside Thomas Williams’ home, but the 89-year-old’s Fourth of July celebration was cut short by a home invasion.
A neighbor, who didn’t want to be identified, told us she’s known Williams for several years.
“He’s such a nice man. He’s very generous and kind and active and involved for his age. He’s just a great neighbor,” said the woman.
According to police, two men forced their way into Williams’ home on the afternoon of June 30 after Williams answered his door.
He identified Henderson as one of the men involved.
Henderson reportedly was hired by Williams recently to do some work.
“I know it was someone he knew in some way, to open the door for them. He wouldn’t just open it for a stranger, I wouldn’t think,” said the neighbor.
Williams told police both men violently shoved him against a chair, causing an “open wound” on his arm.
They took $250 from a desk drawer and ran.
Williams immediately notified his neighbors through a group email.
“Just saying exactly what happened and to be on the “lookout.” And to be aware of these guys that were in our neighborhood,” the neighbor told WREG.
People who lived in the Hedgemoor Community said the home invasion should make everyone more cautious.
“It’s bold. And I think everybody has to be careful of who’s coming into your house to do work: who they are, who’s hiring them. Because this sort of thing can happen,” an unidentified woman told News Channel Three.
We’re told Williams is going to be okay.
Henderson was arrested and is set to face a judge on July 16.
No other arrests have been made.
