On April 27th, Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a robbery in the 4100 block of Franklin Boulevard, Eugene. The victim met an unknown male at a public location to purchase an item being sold online, then again later in the evening to purchase another item. This time they met in a less public area. The suspect pointed a handgun at the victim, demanded money, and struck him in the face twice. The victim complied, and then was able to escape. Detectives identified the suspect as Joshua Randall Welty, 24, of Glenwood. On May 8th, they located Welty and arrested him for Robbery in the First Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Menacing. On May 9th, detectives and deputies served a search warrant in the 1700 block of Concord Street. Additional evidence was located. As of May 16th, Welty is still in custody. The Lane County Sheriff’s Office reminds residents to always meet in a public place when buying and selling, ideally at a location with cameras.
