Tyler Martin

WARSAW — An Albion man was arrested after robbing man at gunpoint during a transaction to purchase a handgun.

Tyler Ray Martin 18 , 215 W. Hazel St., Albion is being charged with robbery with a deadly weapon, a level 3 felony; theft, a level 6 felony; pointing a firearm, a level 6 felony; and carrying a handgun without a license, a class A misdemeanor.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, on Feb. 5, the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department received a call about an armed robbery that occurred earlier in the day. A male told officers that he had agreed to sell his Glock 17 handgun to his friend, Martin.

The seller stated that earlier in the day, he had met with Martin outside his residence so Martin could purchase the handgun. The male stated that during the transaction, Martin put his hand in his pants, causing the male to believe Martin was getting money to pay him. Martin pulled a handgun from his waistband, chambered a cartridge and pointed it at the male. Martin told him he wasn’t playing and grabbed the gun box with the Glock 17 in it and walked away. The male said chased Martin, but lost him when Martin ran between trailers.

On Feb. 8, an officer spoke with Martin and asked if the male had ever tried to sell him a gun. Tyler Martin replied, “Not that I’m aware of.” Martin gave the officer consent to search his home. The officer did not find the gun there.

On Feb. 10, Martin then admitted he had set up the transaction to purchase the handgun. Martin stated he had walked away with the Glock handgun without paying for it.

Martin was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail Feb. 9, with no bond.