Update: Bat Wielding Robbers Arrested

Two people have been arrested and charged in connection the robbery that took place in LaGrange on Tuesday. 

On Tuesday afternoon the Smokes for Less on Route 55 was robbed by a man wielding a baseball bat. The suspect made off with cash, totaling $1,182 and cigarettes. The clerk was threatened with but not struck by the baseball bat, nor was anybody injured during the robbery.

The suspect left the store following the robbery in a white sedan. A short time later Town of Poughkeepsie Police spotted the sedan with two people in the vehicle. The pair was interviewed by the Sheriff's Office and taken into custody following the interviews.

Both individuals have been charged in taking part in the robbery. Michael J. Sanfilippo 38, of Pleasant Valley and Jessica L. Merck 27, of Cottekill, NY were charged with one count of Robbery in the first-degree, a felony.

After being processed, the pair were arraigned and remanded to Dutchess County Jail. Mr. Sanfilippo on no bail, and Ms. Merck on $20,000 cash bail or $40,000 bond.

The investigation is continuing to see if either defendant may be connected to similar incidents in Dutchess County. Anyone who has information regarding this robbery or similar incidents in Dutchess County please contact the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office at (845) 486-3820, and ask for Detective Harris.