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DNA Match Nets Armed Robbery Suspect Months After Crime

DETROIT (WWJ) - Police in Roseville say DNA evidence was used to identify an armed robbery suspect who attempted to rob a coin and jewelry store last June.

Robert Tillman, a 31-year-old Detroit resident, was arrested late last week and arraigned Monday on multiple felony charges, including assault with intent to rob while armed and assault with intent to murder.

Police say three armed suspects attempted to rob the Coin Cove on June 14 last year. Police say in their attempt to rob the store, the suspects fired several gun shots at the store owners before fleeing the store.

Despite an intensive search at the time, the suspects were able to elude capture. However, police say one of the suspects dropped an article of clothing, which was held for possible DNA evidence.

The clothing was presented to the Michigan State Police Crime Lab and lab technicians were able to develop DNA on the article.

The DNA was matched to Tillman, who was currently on parole for a controlled substance charge.

If convicted on all charges, Tillman faces up to life in prison.

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