A man used an 18-inch machete to rob a convenience store of cash, cigars, and cigarettes according to court paperwork.
Tempe police report that on October 7 a man, later identified as 28-year-old Emilo Bustamante, entered the Circle K store near Hardy Drive and Baseline Road.
Police say Bustamante pulled out an 18-inch machete and threatened to stab the clerk. Bustamante allegedly demanded the clerk put packs of cigarettes into a bag.
He then reportedly stole about $300 in cash and several packs of cigars.
Bustamante fled the store but was tracked down by police in the backyard of a home about a half-mile away. Police say Bustamante had a sheath wrapped around his body, but reportedly told police that he threw the machete away as he fled.
He's been charged with armed robbery, kidnapping, and aggravated assault.
