Man arrested on suspicion of robbery

DELHI -- A 30-year-old Delhi man was arrested this week after Merced County sheriff's deputies say he pulled a knife on a man and robbed him of $10.

Suspect Steven Downing was taken into custody on suspicion of robbery around 6 p.m. Saturday at the M & M Corner Market, located at 16490 Letteau Ave. in Delhi, according to Deputy Tom MacKenzie, sheriff's spokesman.

MacKenzie said Downing allegedly approached the victim, who was pumping gas, and asked for $10. Even though the victim said he didn't have any money, MacKenzie said the suspect persisted in asking.

Merced Sun-Star - Steven Downing

Downing opened his shirt and showed the victim a knife tucked in his waistband, MacKenzie said. The suspect also told the victim that he'd just been released from prison and had no problem stabbing him. The victim handed over $10 and Downing got into a truck with anther person and drove away, MacKenzie said.

During the investigation into the crime, deputies identified Downing as a suspect. Detectives and State Parole agents took him into custody Monday at a residence in the 9000 block of Hinton Avenue in Delhi. Downing denied the allegations, MacKenzie said.

Downing was booked into Merced County Jail on suspicion of armed robbery and a parole violation. He's being held without bail.

-- Victor A. Patton

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