Published: June 09, 2009 02:56 pm      

POLICE BEAT: Branford man, wanted in armed robbery attempt, arrested in Lafayette

Attempted armed robbery suspect Steven Edward McGee, 19, of Branford, was arrested Tuesday by Lafayette Deputy Randy Henderson, according to sheriff's reports. McGee, known by the local sheriff's department as "white meat," a phrase also tattooed across his neck, has been sought by Columbia and Suwannee County authorities for some time. McGee is wanted for attempted robbery with a firearm. He is also wanted for violation of probation and a warrant for substance possession. He was arrested in Lafayette County on Appaloosa road.

According to investigator John Stock of the Lake City Police Department, McGee is wanted for an attempted armed robbery that took place on May 21 at 9:30 p.m. McGee, along with another white male, a black male, and a black female, pulled up to the Marion Street Cafe in Lake City on 281 North Marion Avenue in a two door Chevy Cavalier. One male reportedly displayed a firearm outside the car window, aimed it at a group of people standing outside the cafe, and proceeded to demand cash. When the group refused and other bystanders came to the scene, McGee along with the other suspects fled. It is not clear who wielded the firearm.

Moments after the vehicle fled the scene, McGee returned and allegedly admitted to witnesses that he had been in the car. He was reportedly heard exclaiming, "Steven McGee represents!" said Stock. McGee left the scene again before police were called. Witnesses were able to identify him in a photo line up, which lead to the warrant.