A 56-year-old Belleview man is wanted by Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies after he allegedly tied up an elderly couple, rummaged through their home, and stole their car.
In a social media post on Wednesday, the sheriff’s office stated that Robert Leroy Connor II is wanted for home invasion robbery, false imprisonment, and grand theft of a motor vehicle. A warrant has been issued for his arrest.
According to MCSO, in June of 2023, Connor knocked on the front door of a home on Field Crest Street in The Villages. When the elderly victims answered the door, Connor was sweating profusely and asked them for a glass of water.
After the victims gave Connor some water to drink, he asked to borrow their phone and some cash. The victims gave Connor a few dollars and allowed him to make a phone call.
The sheriff’s office states that Connor then asked for more money and demanded to know the victims’ bank account information. He then produced a weapon, tied up the victims, and rummaged through their residence.
The victims were able to break free, and they managed to lock the door behind Connor when he entered the garage. He allegedly attempted to kick the door open before stealing their car and leaving the area.
Detectives immediately launched an investigation and collected evidence, including DNA and fingerprints, from the home. The victims’ car was later found abandoned.
“Well guess what, that DNA evidence just came back with a positive identification for Connor and now we know who was responsible!” stated MCSO on its Facebook page.
“Robert, do the right thing and turn yourself in. Your boldness in committing this crime is only matched by your ignorance of how crime is tolerated here in Marion County,” added the sheriff’s office.
If you have any information about Connor’s whereabouts, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office asks that you call 352-732-9111.
Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact the Crime Stoppers of Marion County by calling 352-368-STOP(7867) or by clicking here to submit an online tip. Be sure to mention 24-04 in your tip.