Matthew Michael Morris

WARSAW — Matthew Michael Morris, 38, 200 Maple Street, Millersburg, was arrested May 12 as the second suspect in a North Webster armed robbery after a man was falsely accused of participating. Morris was sentenced today, Aug. 14, in Kosciusko Circuit Court for burglary, a level 2 felony, and armed robbery, a level 3 felony. Judge Duane Huffer was presiding.

According to the latest affidavit of probable cause, Jesse Roberson, 19, North Webster, admitted that he falsely accused Daniel Edgar of participating in the robbery. Edgar was originally located inside a residence that officers had obtained a search warrant for. The homeowner advised that Edgar sleeps there and Roberson was present the morning of April 11. Roberson showed up at the residence with cash and a handgun. Edgar was initially arrested but had his charges dismissed once officers obtained the full story regarding the robbery.

Instead, it was Morris who helped him perform the armed robbery. The two were driven to the residence by Cody Stuckman, 22, North Webster. Morris and Roberson entered the residence with guns and performed the robbery.

The two then loaded the stolen items into Stuckman’s vehicle and drove to Stuckman’s fathers house. The stolen items were divided between the three men and two additional women. The items stolen included over $750 cash, multiple pieces of jewelry including a wedding ring, six guns and prescription medication.

The State, represented by prosecuting attorney Dan Hampton, asked the court to sentence Morris to the maximum executed time of 10 years per the plea agreement.

Morris’ attorney Joseph Sobek told the court that Morris had shown remorse for what he had done, stating that the act was out of character. Morris’ criminal history is largely drug related. Sobek informed the court Morris was on a “controlled substance binge” when the incident occurred.

Judge Huffer showed little sympathy. “The victims of your crime have the right to the security of their home,” he stated. He further stated that Morris has previously refused help with his drug issue. “I have no sympathy,” Judge Huffer said regarding Morris’ choices.

Morris was sentenced to nine years at the Indiana Department of Corrections for burglary, and 10 years for armed robbery. The sentences will be served concurrently. Morris will receive 94 days jail time credit. Therapeutic community was recommended.