Pocono News Section

Armed Robbery Suspect Arrested in Wilkes-Barre

Armed Robbery Suspect Arrested in Wilkes-Barre - Saturday, May 10, 2008 at 10:22PM EST

Reported by: Eric Deabill
Saturday, May 10, 2008 @ 10:22pm EST
WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY - Police in Luzerne County say they have the man who tried to hold-up a Wilkes-Barre gas station Saturday night.

The robbery happened at Phil's Sunoco on South Main Street just after 6:00 PM Saturday. Investigators say 37-year-old David Osticco walked into the gas station, flashed a knife and demanded cash. The clerk handed over $1,500 cash and the bandit took off on foot.

A witness followed Osticco to an apartment building on nearby South Franklin Street and called police. After a search of the building, cops caught up with the suspect after a brief struggle.

"At the time, the suspect became highly combative. He fought with several officers, striking a few officers without causing injury and was eventually subdued and taken into custody," Wilkes-Barre police sergeant Joe Novak said.

Police say Osticco is no stranger to the law. He was already wanted for failing to return to the Luzerne County prison after a work release program. He will now face new charges of robbery and assault in Luzerne County.