By Shavonne Potts
spotts@salisburypost.com
KANNAPOLIS ó Authorities say two China Grove 16-year-olds who robbed a man at his Kannapolis home knew the victim. Officials are also seeking another suspect who they say helped bind and rob the victim.
The incident occurred at 1:30 a.m. March 17. Ramiro Pacheco Pina, 17, of 8135 Smith Road, was bound with tape and held at gunpoint. The victim had previously associated with the three suspects and recognized them, officials said.
James Bryant Drye, of 2184 Sam Broadway Loop, and David Watt Kelly, of 4245 First St. have been charged.
Drye was charged with three counts of kidnapping, three counts of robbery with a dangerous weapon, one count of first-degree burglary and two counts of breaking and entering.
Kelly was charged with one count of second-degree kidnapping, three counts of robbery with a dangerous weapon and one count of first-degree burglary.
The Rowan County Sheriff’s Office is looking for the third suspect.
Pina had just returned to his house after giving a friend a ride home, Sheriff’s Capt. John Sifford said.
When he walked into his house, Pina discovered three masked burglars wearing dark clothing.
Two of the three had guns. A few of Pina’s friends were also at his home at the time of the burglary.
“They were ordered not to look at them [the gunmen] or they would be shot,” Sifford said.
The suspects kept demanding money and bound the victims’ wrists with tape.
The suspects found Pina’s money in a wallet. He told them the money was to pay his rent and bills.
Sifford said the victim recognized Drye from his voice and freckles, and he recognized Kelly’s eyes.
Once the suspects left, the victims were able to free themselves.
One weapon used in the burglary, a .380 Kel Tec, was stolen during a Feb. 8 vehicle break-in at 7835 Georgia Ave., Kannapolis. The other weapon, a .22-caliber handgun, was stolen during a Feb. 21 car break-in at 3525 Millbridge Road.
Drye and Kelly remain in the Rowan County Detention Center.