Lawrence Sturdivant, Armed Robbery, Ohio 2021

CLEVELAND, OH – Lawrence Sturdivant, 32, of Cleveland, is facing federal charges after a three-week reign of terror targeting retail stores across Cleveland and Shaker Heights. The ATF, alongside local police, alleges Sturdivant committed or attempted to commit ten armed robberies between December 5th and December 26th, 2021, leaving cashiers traumatized and communities on edge.

According to a 14-count indictment unsealed today, Sturdivant specifically targeted nine Walgreens, Family Dollar, and CVS locations in Cleveland, and one Walgreens in neighboring Shaker Heights. In each instance, authorities claim Sturdivant entered the stores brandishing a firearm, using it to threaten and intimidate employees into handing over cash from the registers. The robberies were brazen, quick, and left employees fearing for their lives.

This wasn’t Sturdivant’s first brush with the law. He was already on parole for a 2014 aggravated robbery conviction when these latest crimes occurred. As a convicted felon, possessing a firearm or ammunition is strictly prohibited, adding another charge to the already lengthy list. Federal prosecutors are building a case to ensure Sturdivant faces the maximum penalty for his repeated disregard for the law and public safety.

The indictment details ten counts of interference with commerce by robbery, three counts of using, carrying, or brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and one count of being a felon in possession of ammunition. If convicted on all counts, Sturdivant could face a significant prison sentence. However, the ultimate sentence will be determined by the court, considering his prior criminal record and the specifics of the offenses.

“An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt,” stated a boilerplate disclaimer from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio. “The defendant is entitled to a fair trial.” But for the victims of these robberies, and the residents of Cleveland and Shaker Heights, the pursuit of justice is long overdue. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam J. Joines is leading the prosecution, promising a vigorous defense of the charges.

The investigation was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Cleveland Division, the Cleveland Division of Police, and the Shaker Heights Police Department. The collaborative effort highlights the commitment of these agencies to combat violent crime and hold repeat offenders accountable. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it progresses through the federal court system.

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