U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser today announced two men suspected of robbing a CVS drug store in Uptown New Orleans and shooting a New Orleans Police Officer in June now face federal charges.
Alan Parson and Richard Sansbury are each charged with conspiracy to rob a pharmacy, attempted robbery of a pharmacy, and discharge of a firearm in a crime of violence.
"They knew what they were doing," said Strasser. "They were going after drugs that are on the DEA's schedule I, II, III, and IV."
Strasser said the suspects were targeting hydrocodone and other prescription narcotics.
Authorities say Parson and Sansbury went into the CVS on Prytania on June 17, wearing hoods and gloves and carrying guns and zip-tes. They used the ties to bind employees while they robbed the store, according to police.
Officers responding to the robbery confronted the men as they exited the store. Police say the suspects opened fire on them, striking one officer in the shoulder. Police fired back, wounding both men. Parson, 18, collapsed nearby. After a three-hour search, officers say they found Sansbury, 26, hiding in a yard nearby.
Parson and Sansbury, both of Indiana, were booked last month on charges of attempted murder of police officers, armed robbery, and other charges.