Jury finds armed robber guilty
Wanda English Burnett - Editor

Last week a Ripley County jury convicted Shane Walsman of Armed Robbery, a Class B Felony, after hearing testimony about his actions the night of January 20, 2004, when the Sunman Package Store was robbed. A co-conspirator, Gerald (Gary) Frensemeier was earlier arrested and sentenced to eight years for his role in the robbery.

Jurors would hear that Walsman was armed with a .38 caliber revolver when he held-up Juanita Howard, owner of the package store. He held Howard at gunpoint and demanded she "give him all the money." He told her he would kill her if she tried to follow him. Walsman was able to flee with over $700. Howard testified that she was terrified as the ordeal took place and was not sure if she would be injured or perhaps killed.

Frensemeier testified that he and Walsman planned the armed robbery nd told how they obtained the gun that was used. He and Walsman were roommates at the time and also shared residence with Angela Slayback. She admitted that she helped to make the mask used in the robbery from one of her shirts. DNA tests were performed on the mask, which was found outside the package store. The evidence pointed the finger at Walsman.

Prosecutor Ric Hertel, along with Chief Deputy Ryan King, represented the State with the defendant being represented by his attorney, Doug Amberger. The prosecution noted they hoped the conviction would help bring closure for Howard, who "has been dealing with this case for such a long time."

Trooper David Noah led the investigation and was assisted by other state troopers, the Batesville, Sunman, and Osgood police departments, as well as the Ripley County Sheriff's Department.

Sentencing for Walsman has been set for October 27.