Two Merced men accused of scheme to rob or burglarize Branding Iron

Merced police say they arrested two men this weekend who were planning on committing a robbery or burglary at a local restaurant.

In a news release, Merced police said they arrested Michael Paul Richter, 29, and Ronald Killman, 61, on Sunday before the pair were able to carry out their plan at the Branding Iron restaurant at 640 W. 16th St.

Officers said they received a tip about the plan around 7 p.m. Sunday and learned it was going to be carried out during business hours or just before the restaurant closed. Police notified employees as a precaution.

Officers found Richter at a Merced motel just before 8 p.m. and questioned him. Police said he admitted discussing the plan with another person. Officers also found evidence of Richter’s involvement, police said.

Killman was found at home and admitted discussing the plan with Richter, police said. Officers said they also located evidence of his involvement.

Both men were booked into the Merced County jail on suspicion of conspiracy.

This story was originally published January 19, 2015 at 8:23 AM with the headline "Two Merced men accused of scheme to rob or burglarize Branding Iron."