An 18-year-old Salem man was formally charged with a Class X offense of armed robbery as well as aggravated unlawful use of a weapon following a Saturday incident where a victim was robbed of an expensive pair of shoes. Michael Shanafelt of East Olive was ordered held without bond pending further court action. Upon conviction, the Class X charge requires 15 years to be added to the term due to a gun being involved.
Two juveniles were also charged in connection with the incident and were ordered to remain in juvenile detention.
Salem Police say the juvenile male victim showed up for a meeting late Saturday night on Schwartz Street near Golden Acres to sell the shoes that were advertised on a social media marketplace. Instead, the three allegedly pulled guns and took the shoes. The victim went to the Salem Police station to report the incident. He was not hurt. Salem Police say they have recovered two BB guns that look like real guns that they believe were used in the robbery. They are still searching for a possible third gun. The shoes have also been recovered.
Probable cause was found at Monday’s court hearing to continue holding Shanafelt on the charge. He is due back in court on August 13th for a preliminary hearing.
