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PD: Chandler man robbed by person he hired to put up Christmas lights

Posted at 11:06 AM, Dec 12, 2016
and last updated 2016-12-13 00:32:15-05

Court records show that on December 5, a man in Chandler hired a day laborer to put up his Christmas lights and was soon the victim of an armed robbery by the same man.

Police report that the victim picked up 42-year-old Jose Armando Tavison-Ruiz on the corner of Priest and Baseline roads after hiring him to put up Christmas lights at his home. 

He invited Ruiz into his home, near Warner and Dobson roads, and offered him some water. Ruiz then allegedly pulled out a handgun and ordered the victim to the ground. The victim yelled and screamed being forced to put his face in the belly of a stuffed animal.

A neighbor heard the commotion and called the police who arrived in time to capture Ruiz as he exited the home.

Police say they found Ruiz in possession of the victim's car keys, cell phone and $161 in cash. They also found and a "small black airsoft handgun."

In a strange twist, police say the man told them the homeowner was actually trying to pay him for sexual acts but the suspect said no. Police aren't buying his excuse as Ruiz couldn't explain how he had cash and car keys on him. 

Ruiz has been charged with armed robbery, kidnapping, attempted car theft and aggravated assault.