By Brian Livingston
An elderly man that lives on Fish Lodge Road was surprised on the morning Nov. 20, when two men allegedly entered his home and robbed him.
Since then Lauderdale County Sheriff's investigators have been trying to locate one of the suspects, Brandon Johnson, and have attempted to identify a second individual who may have been an accomplice to the crime. Monday afternoon LCSD Chief Deputy Ward Calhoun said law enforcement authorities want to speak to Tellis Maurice Lanier, 28, of Meridian, who may or may not be that second suspect.
"We have warrants out for both men," said Calhoun. "Johnson is wanted in connection with the alleged incident while Lanier has an outstanding warrant for probation violation. Lanier is a person of interest in this ongoing robbery case."
According to LCSD records, Lanier was arrested in 2007 on a drug charge by agents with the East Mississippi Drug Task Force.
According to Calhoun, the victim was unhurt in the incident that reportedly occurred at about mid-moring but cash and several rifles were said to have been stolen. Authorities have so far been unable to locate the 22-year-old Johnson, whose last known address was listed as 917 42nd Ave., in Meridian. He is wanted for robbery.
Calhoun said at the time of the incident they were looking for another suspect who was said to have accompanied Johnson during this alleged incident. Calhoun stopped short of saying Lanier was that person but said investigators wanted to talk to Lanier about his possible connection.
"The victim was acquainted with Johnson but not the other person," said Calhoun. "But through tips and further investigation Lanier's name came up."
Calhoun asks if anyone has information leading to the arrest of Johnson or Lanier they might be eligible for a reward by calling Crime Stoppers at (601) 485-1860.
