SANTA ROSA COUNTY

SHERIFF'S OFFICE

Sheriff Wendell Hall

Elderly Milton Man Beaten and Robbed in Front of His Home

On 1/19/09 at approximately 1900 hours, Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched to the 6400 block of Sycamore Street , Milton , Florida , in reference to the beating and robbery of an elderly man. The victim, Willie Smith (76 years old) had just arrived home from work and pulled into his driveway. As Smith exited his vehicle and began walking towards his front door, Smith felt something hit him over the head, knocking him face first into the ground. The suspect, described as a black male with a stocky build, demanded Smith's money, as he held Smith's arms under Smith's body. The suspect then sat on Smith and continued to push Smith's face into the ground. The suspect also threatened to shoot Smith. No weapon was observed. The suspect repeatedly struck Smith in the head until Smith complied with his demands. It is believed that the suspect knew Smith, due to the suspect referring to Smith by his nickname "Willie Dee". The suspect then left Smith bloodied and beaten in his front yard. It is believed that Smith was originally struck over the head with a clay flower pot. Smith was taken to Santa Rosa Medical Center for treatment of his injuries, which included numerous cuts to his face and head, and severe bruising to his nose, which appeared to be broken. The suspect's identity is not known at this time. Anyone with information concerning this crime or the identity of the suspect is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 437-STOP. No further information is available at this time.

Press Release By:

Sgt. Scott Haines

Media Relations Unit

(850) 981-2136 or shaines@srso.net