A Hot Springs man was arrested Thursday on felony charges for the alleged armed robbery and assault of a local man last week.
Robert Arthur Blackstead, 52, who lists an Albright Road address, was taken into custody shortly before 2 p.m. in the 600 block of Airport Road and charged with aggravated robbery, punishable by up to life in prison, and first-degree battery, punishable by up to 20 years.
Blackstead appeared via video in Garland County District Court Friday morning and pleaded not guilty to both charges. Judge Ralph Ohm issued an order barring Blackstead from any contact with the victim or his residence. Bond was set at $20,000, but Blackstead also has a zero bond parole hold on him.
A felony review hearing is set for Oct. 9 to determine if the case will be bound over to Garland County Circuit Court.
According to the affidavit, on Sept. 1, around 2:30 a.m., the victim states he was at his residence on Briarmeadow Lane when he heard the doorbell ring and believed it was his aunt who had locked herself out.
When he opened the door, he noted two known suspects, identified as Blackstead and another man, were standing there. He said he was struck in the face by Blackstead with what appeared to be a black handgun.
He said he fell back into the living room and the two men entered. Blackstead allegedly said, "This is for your brother," and then struck the victim numerous times in the head and face. At one point, the victim said he felt what appeared to be the barrel of the gun against the back of his head.
After the two men left, the victim discovered his cellphone and $300 from his wallet were missing. The victim's father arrived a short time later and drove the victim to CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs where he was treated for multiple lacerations, a concussion and a fractured nose. A warrant was later issued for Blackstead's arrest.
Local on 09/09/2017