MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — A 35-year-old Fridley man has pleaded guilty to using a .38-caliber pistol to rob a Columbia Heights convenience store on March 11, 2011, according to the Columbia Heights Police Department.
Jimmy Earl Matthews specifically pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He was indicted on May 11, 2011.
According to his plea agreement, Matthews admitted to driving to the Totem Superette with another individual. When they arrive, the other person remained in the car while Matthews entered the store while concealing his face with a blue bandanna.
He admitted to brandishing the gun at the clerk and demanding money. When he received cash, he fled and attempted to return to the car. However, he encountered police, so he dropped the gun behind the car, ran and tried hiding the cash in a snow bank.
After a short pursuit, he was apprehended and the gun, bandanna and $146 in cash were recovered.
His sentencing date has not been set yet. He could face seven years in prison to life for his crime.
