Rodney Gardner, Robbery, Missouri 2018

A shocking act of violence shook a popular ice cream shop in St. Louis’ Central West End neighborhood when Rodney Gardner, 52, allegedly beat up a worker and stole cash from the register. Gardner, a career thief with a history of robbery convictions, pleaded guilty to one count of interfering with interstate commerce by robbing Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams in federal court this morning.

According to court documents, on March 6, 2018, Gardner entered the ice cream shop posing as a customer before demanding that employees hand over money from the cash register. In a brutal display of violence, Gardner punched one employee multiple times in the face, breaking her nose, and grabbed the cash register before fleeing the scene.

A brief foot chase ensued before police officers apprehended Gardner. The shocking incident left the community reeling and raised concerns about the safety of local businesses.

Gardner faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. In determining the actual sentence, a judge will consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide recommended sentencing ranges. Gardner’s prior convictions for robbery, for which he was previously imprisoned in the Missouri Department of Corrections, will also be taken into account.

The case was investigated by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer J. Roy is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Sentencing is set for September 11, 2018.

Gardner’s guilty plea marks a significant milestone in the case, bringing closure to the victims and their families. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and the need for businesses to prioritize employee safety.

The St. Louis community is still reeling from the shocking incident, and many are left wondering how such violence can occur in a seemingly safe neighborhood.

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