FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, July 17, 2014

CONTACT: SGT. Kendale Adams (317) 327.3730

NEWS RELEASE INDIANAPOLIS – Today, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Chief of Police Rick Hite announced the arrest of Desi Thomas, 22, of Indianapolis for the murder of Harry Briggs and the robbery of the Joe’s Junction in the 5200 block of West Troy Avenue on June 4, 2014. Detectives allege that during a robbery of the Joe’s Junction Desi Thomas, unprovoked, shot the victim Mr. Briggs. Mr. Briggs unfortunately succumbed to his injuries on June 7, 2014 while at the hospital. Desi Thomas was seen on surveillance video skipping away from the scene immediately following the robbery and shooting. Detectives received a number of tips from the community, and credit the community with providing information that eventually led to the successful identification and eventual arrest of the suspect. Desi Thomas was apprehended yesterday afternoon at 3307 Maumee Court with the assistance of the IMPD SWAT Team, Violent Crimes Unit, and the U.S. Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force without incident. “The efforts of the hard working men and women of IMPD continue, as another violent offender is apprehended,” said Chief Hite. “The joint efforts of investigators and community tips led to the capture of the suspect in the Joe’s Junction murder. You said something, and we as a team did something. The partnership between community and police works.” Desi Thomas faces formal charges of Felony Murder, Murder (Class A Felony) and Robbery (Class A Felony). The suspect is currently being held in the Arrestee Processing Center with no bond. The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office has available, upon request, the probable cause affidavit. ###

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