Man in Covelo acting strangely punches clerk, climbs on roof of Keith's market and uses broken mop handle to threaten store employee

On 10-31-2015 at approximately 5:30 PM, Deputies from the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to a report of a man, later identified as Charlie Crawford, acting strangely in the downtown area of Covelo, California.

Crawford was described by witnesses as possibly being under the influence of some type of drug.

Crawford was reported to have entered Keith's Market speaking to employees and customers in a confused and rambling manner.  Crawford was also described as being aggressive and confrontational.

Crawford was contacted by a Keith's Market employee about the disturbance he was causing. Crawford responded by threatened to harm the employee.

As Crawford made the threat, he brandished a broken wooden mop handle with a sharp end, motioning toward the employee in a stabbing movement.  Crawford subsequently climbed onto the roof of Keith's Market.

Crawford climbed down off the roof and went across the street to the Redwood Market where he attempted to walk away with an item from the store.

When the clerk attempted to keep Crawford from walking away with the item, Crawford punched the clerk once in the face.

The clerk called out for help and at least two customers responded to assist him. The customers restrained Crawford for several minutes as another employee called 911.

When Crawford appeared to relax, the customers relinquished their hold on him and Crawford fled on foot.

The clerk suffered only minor injuries that did not require medical attention.

Deputies searched for Crawford on the evening of 10-31-2015 but were unable to locate him successfully.

On 11-01-2015 the search for Crawford resumed and he was located at approximately 1:00 PM walking on Barnes Lane in Covelo, California.

Crawford was arrested for robbery, criminal threats and brandishing a weapon.

Crawford was booked into the Mendocino County Jail where he was to be held in lieu of $75,000.00 bail for the open charges. In addition, Crawford was wanted on three out-of county warrants with a combined $21,000.00 bail.