WASHINGTON TWP. (WWJ) - A man has been charged with assault with intent to rob while armed in an alleged attack at an ATM.
Macomb County Prosecutor Eric Smith on Friday announced the case against Bowling Green, Kentucky resident Zachariah Thornton in connection with the incident in Washington Township at around 8 p.m. last Saturday.
According to investigators, Thornton was wearing all black, including a face-covering and gloves, when he approached a 41-year-old Shelby Township man from behind as he was using a drive-up ATM at a Chase Bank on 26 Mile Rd.
Prosecutors said Thornton -- armed with a knife -- demanded cash from the victim, who tried to push Thornton away. It's alleged that Thorton then stabbed the victim before running away.
The Macomb County Sheriff's Office used a K9 team to track the suspect's path of escape, finding some clothing they believed the suspect was wearing at the time of the attack. Deputies then used surveillance video, prosecutors said, to identify Thornton as the suspect.
The victim was treated for non-life threatening injuries at a local hospital.
"This obviously was a terrifying experience for the victim," said Smith, in a statement. "I commend the due diligent efforts of the sheriff's deputies in apprehending and removing this dangerous criminal from the streets. Had he not been taken into custody, I have no doubt the defendant would have continued this criminal behavior."
"This is a reminder to be aware of our surroundings," Smith added.
Bond for Thornton was set at $100,000 cash/surety at an arraignment Friday afternoon in 42-1 District Court. If convicted as charged, he faces up to life in prison.
