Suspect arrested over $750 robbery outside Ruskin food pantry

Joshua Mobley was arrested Thursday morning after deputies linked him to a violent robbery outside a Ruskin food pantry. The 27-year-old man faces two felony charges, including robbery with a weapon and aggravated battery, following an attack that occurred on Tuesday.

Deputies responded to a 911 call around 8 a.m. Tuesday near the Calvary Angel's Attic food pantry in Ruskin. First responders found a male victim who had sustained a stab wound. The victim told investigators that an assailant struck him multiple times with an unknown object. The attacker then took the victim's jewelry, cellphone, and wallet before fleeing on foot.

Paramedics transported the victim to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Detectives identified Mobley as the suspect through investigative means. Deputies located and arrested him on Harbour Blue Street in Ruskin two days after the incident.

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister released a statement condemning the daytime violence near a community assistance site. "This victim was ambushed from behind and left injured near a place where our neighbors go for help," Chronister said. "This violent criminal is now off our streets and will answer for what he has done."

Mobley was booked on two felony counts: robbery with a weapon for an amount of $750 or more but less than $20,000, and aggravated battery with a weapon causing great bodily harm. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has not identified the specific weapon used in the attack or disclosed the exact evidence that led detectives to Mobley.

The agency noted that the investigation remains active. Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to an arrest or conviction. Residents can submit tips by calling 1-800-873-TIPS, visiting the Crime Stoppers website, or using the P3 Tips Mobile app.