REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio – A Canal Winchester man has pleaded guilty to federal charges in the armed robbery of a central Ohio jewelry store he pulled off with his sister’s help last year.
Federal prosecutors said Tuesday that Darnell Harris, 26, pleaded guilty Monday in Columbus to obstructing interstate commerce and to brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.
Authorities say Harris entered Heins Jewelers in Reynoldsburg in May 2012 while his 19-year-old sister posed as a customer, tied up two employees and beat one in the face and head with a gun.
Authorities say the siblings, of Canal Winchester, fled with jewels and cash.
A message was left at Harris’ attorney’s office.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office says Harris’ sister, Mariah Harris, pleaded guilty this month in the robbery to obstructing interstate commerce.
Sentencing dates haven’t been set.
According to court documents, Mariah Harris went into Heins Jewelers posing as a customer shopping for engagement rings. Once she had the attention of both employees, Darnell Harris entered the store carrying a handgun and ordered both employees into a back room where he tied them up.
When one employee loosened his restraints and tried to escape, Darnell Harris pistol-whipped him, causing severe face and head injuries.
Darnell Harris was arrested by Reynoldsburg and Pickerington police officers in March following a traffic stop in Pickerington.
Mariah Harris surrendered to Reynoldsburg police.