SMPD chief says robbery could have been prevented

Three men are facing first-degree felony charges in connection with an armed robbery that occurred outside a San Marcos apartment complex last week.

And it’s a robbery that could have easily been prevented, police say.

Jar re Edtwaine, 21, and Quame Eugene Edwards, 23, both of Houston, and Demario Javon Derrow, 23, of Fort Worth all remained in Hays County jail as of Tuesday in connection with the Nov. 16 case. According to Police Chief Chase Stapp, the victim in the case had arranged to sell an old iPhone 7, and met with the supposed buyer near Building 9 at the Avalon Apartments around 7 p.m. 

Instead of doing the deal, the suspects showed weapons and robbed the victim of the phone and his backpack.

Stapp said the case is a good illustration of what can go bad in deals arranged online or through third parties. A better idea would have been to meet up outside the San Marcos Police station at 2300 I-35 South. There, he said, there are video cameras operating and even a “Safe Exchange Zone” sign reminding people of the option. 

“It’s well lit,” Stapp said.