APD: Man robs store to help children

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Simon Samuel, 23, allegedly tried to rob three stores. However, Samuel claimed he did it to "take care of his children."

On Tuesday, Samuel allegedly went into an insurance company building and demanded money from one of the employees. She pointed to a drawer with $100 in it. Samuel then took the money and left, according to the witness.

Later on Tuesday, Samuel allegedly entered a hair salon in the middle of the afternoon while the owner was cutting a customer's hair. The hair salon owner claimed that Samuel walked up to him and demanded money. The owner noticed that Samuel had his hand in his pocket, as if he had a weapon, according to reports.

The owner said that he did not have money, so Samuel left without any cash, according to the owner.

Two other businesses in the same complex as the hair salon claimed that Samuel also entered their businesses and "acted suspicious." However, Samuel allegedly said to one of the business owners that he was going to "hit a lick" on them, but they were nice guys and he changed his mind.

All of the witnesses at the businesses described a man wearing a red hoodie. Police heard the 911 call over the scanners and started to head over the scene. They say a person fitting the description in the immediate area where the first robbery occurred. Police arrested Samuel on some outstanding traffic warrants. All the witnesses identified Samuel once police apprehended him. Police also found five $20-bills folded in his sock.

When asked why he robbed the stores, Samuel claimed he wanted to "take care of his children."

Samuel is charged with robbery by threat, a second-degree felony.