Lindenhurst man accused in robbery pleads not guilty

A Lindenhurst man pleaded not guilty Wednesday to charges he robbed three acquaintances who had driven to Fox Lake to loan him money.

Police said they also found about an ounce of cocaine in Bryson Griffin's bed when they went to question him about the robbery.

Assistant State's Attorney Ari Fisz said Griffin, 24, of 2208 Sprucewood Court, called the victims at 3 a.m. on Aug. 17, claiming he was stranded at a grocery store parking lot in Fox Lake and needed money.

The victims, two Round Lake Beach men and a Gurnee woman, drove to the lot to loan Griffin some money, Fisz said, and Griffin drew a large kitchen knife on them when they arrived.

He took $500 from the group, Fisz said, and warned them he would stab them if they told anyone what had happened.

Fox Lake police went to Griffin's home later the same day to question him about the robbery, and Griffin denied doing anything to the group.

He was arrested, and police said they found the cocaine while searching his bedroom for the knife.

Circuit Judge George Bridges told Griffin he is charged with armed robbery and possession of cocaine. He could be sent to prison for up to 30 years if convicted of either charge.

Bridges set a trial for Oct. 22 and ordered Griffin to appear in court Oct. 11.