Robber Struck, Bit Liquor Store Employees, Police Say

Newton man also accused of causing destruction of hundreds of dollars of wine in Sparta, according to authorities.

A Newton man allegedly struck and bit employees of a Sparta liquor store while causing hundreds of dollars of damage after trying to steal a cigar, according to police.  Police also said the man was arrested after the employees and a customer held him down while waiting for authorities on Monday night. Michael Martinez, 19, was arrested and charged with armed robbery, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, criminal mischief, simple assault and disorderly conduct, according to a report released by Sgt. John-Paul Beebe. Beebe said when police arrived at the White Deer Liquor store at about 6:15 p.m. they found a store employee and a customer holding Martinez down on the floor. According to Beebe, Martinez had entered the store and …

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