In a bizarre incident in Indianapolis, a person suspected of being a robber allegedly held up a woman at gunpoint, but instead of fleeing the scene, he demanded that she add him as a friend on Facebook and even asked her out on a date.
The victim, identified as Amber Beraun, claimed that the suspect, Damien Boyce, sent her messages inviting her to “chill out” with him and promising to reimburse her for the robbery because she was “pretty.”
It goes without saying that using a gun and demanding money is not an appropriate way to seek companionship. Holding someone at gunpoint and coercing them into social interaction is a troubling course of action.
According to Amber, the incident occurred on May 8 when she was checking her mailbox outside her home. The suspect approached her, brandished a revolver, and demanded all her cash. After she handed over around $100, he insisted that she add him on Facebook, indicating that the amount wasn’t sufficient. Fearful for her safety, Amber agreed to his request, hoping that complying would make him leave.
Subsequently, she received flirtatious texts from the suspect, with messages expressing his intention to repay her because she was “too pretty to rob.” Despite her discomfort, Amber replied politely, acknowledging his circumstances and wishing him well. However, when the suspect invited her to hang out, she declined, mentioning that she was already in a relationship.
Amber now admits feeling uneasy in her own home due to this distressing experience. Having her personal belongings targeted and her sense of security shattered has left her on edge, especially knowing that criminals roam the streets searching for opportunities to commit crimes.
The suspect, Damien Boyce, was released on a $7,500 bail bond after being charged with robbing someone at gunpoint. Furthermore, he was arrested on June 12 in connection with another robbery and is now facing charges of burglary, illegal possession of a firearm, criminal negligence, and battery.
Police reported that Boyce allegedly shot two individuals and assaulted another with a brick before eventually surrendering to the SWAT team after barricading himself inside a building.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of personal safety and the need for vigilance in our communities. It also highlights the potential risks associated with online interactions, urging individuals to exercise caution when connecting with strangers, particularly in situations involving coercion or criminal activity.