Suspect arrested in several robberies

YOUNGSTOWN — A Niles man who police say caused terror in three communities over a period of two days, committing strong-arm robberies at four locations, is now in police custody.

According to police reports, Clifford Raynovich, 28, of Evans Street, Niles, was arrested in Youngstown on Tuesday night after the would-be victims of a robbery attempt chased him on foot down Salt Springs Road, where Youngstown police picked him up.

Raynovich is due in Youngstown Municipal Court on Thursday. He is charged with robbery and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Girard Detective Greg Manente said Girard police will likely file charges for two robberies in that city. He also said Liberty police are investigating Raynovich for a similar robbery in that jurisdiction.

According to Youngstown police reports, Raynovich went into Cherol’s Market on Salt Springs Road just before 4 p.m. Tuesday and attempted to buy a pack of gum. Employees told police the man reached over the counter and grabbed money out of the register, then pushed a pregnant woman out of the way as he ran from the store.

Police reports said an employee and a customer chased the man down Salt Springs Road. Raynovich was later arrested by police behind a business at the corner of Bessemer and Waverly Streets. Reports said that store employees identified him as the man who stole the money.

For the complete story, see Thursday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com.