Toledo man denies guilt in robbery with machete

2/9/2008

A man charged with robbing a pizza delivery driver with a machete was arraigned yesterday in Lucas County Common Pleas Court on robbery charges.

James Bryant, 32, of 1212 Liberty St., Apt. B pleaded not guilty to three counts of robbery, two counts of aggravated robbery, and one count of kidnapping. He was being held in the county jail in lieu of a $150,000 bond.

Judge James Jensen set a March 31 trial date. Mr. Bryant faces up to 54 years in prison if convicted on each count.

Mr. Bryant is accused of several robberies, including that of a 23-year-old man delivering pizzas to the Liberty address about 5:30 p.m. Jan. 17.

Authorities said the victim was taken into the apartment and threatened with a machete.

One man tied his arms and legs, while another took $30 from his wallet.