Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott announced the arrests of Ernest Rodrycuss Bates (DOB: 06/13/78) and Therin Tracell Mincy (DOB: 12/10/80) both are charged with two counts of armed robbery, two counts of assault, two counts of kidnapping, and burglary.

Sheriff Lott stated that information from the community led to the arrest of Bates who was arrested on Wednesday, September 14, 2011 on Angus Road, (Pontiac) at 5:30 PM – Mincy was arrested on Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 929 Marlboro Street, (Columbia) at a home of an acquaintance -- both men were arrested without incident.

Sheriff Lott stated that at 7:30 PM on Sunday, September 11, 2011 Richland County Sheriff’s Department responded to a burglary/ breaking and entering call. Sheriff Leon Lott stated that Bates and Mincy followed the victim to his residence and forced him into his apartment -- once inside Bates and Mincy pointed a handgun at the victim and assaulted him. Sheriff Leon Lott stated that Bates and Mincy searched the victims’ home and stole his wallet, two cell phones, and car keys.

Sheriff Lott stated that at 9:00 PM on Sunday, September 11, 2011 Richland County Sheriff’s Department responded to an assault call. Upon arrival deputies located the victim who had lacerations to the upper body and was transported to Palmetto Richland Hospital.

The victim later stated he was approached by Bates and Mincy who presented handguns and demanded all his money. Sheriff Leon Lott stated that the victim was assaulted till he was unconscious. Bates and Mincy fled the scene with the victims’ cell phone, wallet, and money.

Bates and Mincy targeted these victims because they were of Hispanic decent. Sheriff Lott stated "it's important to me that everyone in the community receives assistance without regard to race, color, creed, sex or nationality status. We are dedicated to protect and serve the people of Richland County." Bates and Mincy are currently detained at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.