Home Invasion Caught on Video Leads to Conviction

Prosecutors in DA Charme Allen’s Career Gang Unit obtained convictions against a man who was caught on surveillance video using a tire iron to force entry into a townhouse in Farragut. Augusta Thomas Robinson, 27, was convicted of Aggravated Burglary and Possession of Firearm During the Commission of a Dangerous Felony. After the jury returned its verdict, Judge Steve Sword revoked Robinson’s bond and took him into custody.

At trial, Assistant District Attorney Phil Morton explained to the jury that on August 9, 2015, Robinson and co-defendant Damien Lamar Debro used a tire iron to force entry into a townhouse off Canton Hollow Road in West Knoxville in order to steal jewelry, cash, and a television. Investigators with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office used the surveillance video to issue an alert to local law enforcement to be on the lookout for the as-of-yet unidentified suspects. The alert was also broadcast by local media, which led to law enforcement receiving tips from the public to help identify the suspects. Robinson was eventually arrested by officers with the Knoxville Police Department.

“”This case highlights the importance of the cooperation between law enforcement and the citizens we serve,”” said DA Charme Allen.””When law enforcement agencies work together with the public, the community is made safer.””

Judge Sword set the case for sentencing on January 27. Aggravated Burglary is a Class C felony carrying a punishment between three and six years. Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Dangerous Felony carries a mandatory three-year-sentence without the possibility of parole that must run consecutive to the Aggravated Burglary sentence.

If you have any questions, please contact Sean McDermott at 865-215-2515 or Sean.McDermott@knoxcounty.org. For more information about the District Attorney’s Office, visit our website at dag.knoxcountytn.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.