By Megan Ashley Fink

The Natchez Democrat

 

NATCHEZ — Two Natchez residents are facing armed robbery charges after reportedly robbing two men at gunpoint Tuesday night.

Natchez Police Department Detective Jerry Ford said Rovante Jenkins, 21, of 118 Ivy Lane, and Jessica Ellis, 20, of 205 Watts Ave., were charged with armed robbery and attempted robbery.

Jenkins allegedly came to a St. Catherine Street residence asking to buy drugs and was asked to leave the property twice by a resident.

Ellis, who is reportedly acquainted with the victim, allegedly called the victim and said she was coming over to visit.

When the resident opened the door to Ellis, Jenkins was allegedly at the door with her. Jenkins allegedly pulled out a gun and demanded the resident surrender all his money.

The victim allegedly closed the door hard, trapping Jenkins’ arm that was holding the weapon. Jenkins allegedly fired once and then slipped his arm out of the door and escaped. The resident was not harmed.

Meanwhile, Ellis allegedly called another person whom she knew and asked him to pick her up on Stiers Lane. An NPD report states that the second victim gave Ellis and Jenkins a ride during which Jenkins pointed a gun at the driver’s head, demanding valuables from the man.

Ford said the driver produced a cell phone, a watch, and five dollars, which apparently did not satisfy the alleged robbers. Jenkins and Ellis reportedly demanded the man drive home to retrieve more money.

Instead, the second victim drove to a relative’s home. While the suspects were in the car, the victim reportedly called police.

Ford said Jenkins was able to escape arrest but turned himself in Wednesday. Ellis was arrested Tuesday night.

Jenkins and Ellis were both being held in the Natchez City Jail Wednesday evening with no bond.