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Desperate times call for desperate measures is a phrase that comes to mind, and the problem is, people are becoming more desperate and bolder when it comes to the measures they will go to. That does not always equate to intelligence in the acts they decide to participate in. Let us point out, it is NEVER a good idea to steal from someone else, ever. It is so vitally important to teach folks that if you want something, work for it and earn it. Sadly, criminals do not seem to care.

One such alleged criminal, Dejarriel Travon Burgin, 32, of St. Paul, was clearly not taught it is wrong to take things that do not belong to him as he attempted to burglarize the Red Barn VFW in Cottage Grove. Attempted is the key word. Unfortunately

for him, he walked into a bar where the manager is a retired officer, and the patrons are often former military. Not knowing this, he thought it was a good idea to steal the cash register and tried to run with it. That did not go well for him as two good Samaritans chased Burgin down and stopped him from getting too far, until Cottage Grove Police arrived.

The official complaint shows the initial charges against Burgin are: Count one – First Degree Aggravated Robbery, a felony punishable by up to 20 years and $35,000. Count two – Second degree assault with a dangerous weapon, non-firearm, a felony punishable by up to seven years and $14,000. Third count – Gross Misdemeanor Criminal Vehicular Operation – Bodily harm – Gross Negligence punishable by up to one year and $3,000.

The Journal did reach out to the VFW for comment and to acquire information on the two good Samaritans, but the calls were not returned.

Luckily, no one was injured in this event. Cottage Grove PD released a small statement regarding the attempted robbery: A suspect is in custody following a mid-day attempted robbery at the Cottage Grove VFW on East Point Douglas Road. Officers responded to a report of a male who entered the building and stole a cash drawer after using physical force. He was chased by at least two customers who caught up with him prior to police arriving. The male has been transported to jail where he is awaiting criminal charges. While the CGPD does not encourage people to chase suspects, in this case, the customer is always right?

We thank these citizens for their bravery, selflessness and assistance!