Arrest and Charges
Milwaukee authorities have charged a couple in connection with a series of violent robberies that led to fatal outcomes. The incidents, which took place in July, involved luring victims to a North Side apartment under false pretenses before robbing and attacking them. The suspects, identified as 21-year-old Abby Fulweiler and 20-year-old Sanders, are now facing multiple felony charges, including armed robbery, first-degree reckless injury, and felony murder.
July 16 Incident: Assault and Robbery
On July 16, a man entered a Milwaukee apartment building on the North Side, believing he was meeting a woman for a $300 massage. However, this meeting turned violent. According to court records, once inside the hallway, Fulweiler’s boyfriend, Sanders, approached the man from behind, wearing a ski mask and armed with an assault rifle. Sanders then shot the man in the leg, after which he robbed him of his money, credit card, and car keys. Despite the injury, the victim survived the assault.
July 28 Incident: Fatal Shooting
The second incident occurred on July 28, when another man was lured to the same apartment under similar false pretenses. This time, the encounter resulted in a fatality. Javier Hernandez Garza was shot in the chest in the hallway of the apartment building and died at the scene. Investigators later recovered Sanders’ gun and linked him to both shootings.
Court Proceedings
Following their arrest, both Fulweiler and Sanders were charged with multiple felonies. During their court appearance, a judge followed the state’s recommendation and set bail for both suspects at $200,000. The charges they face include armed robbery, first-degree reckless injury, and felony murder. The criminal complaint reveals that Sanders admitted to plotting the robberies with Fulweiler to make rent payments.
Impact on the Community
The violent nature of these crimes has shocked the Milwaukee community. The use of an assault rifle and the premeditated aspect of the robberies highlight the serious threat posed by the suspects. Authorities have emphasized the planned nature of these incidents, which were not random acts of violence but calculated schemes to rob unsuspecting victims.
Investigation and Evidence
The investigation into these crimes was swift and thorough. Law enforcement officers were able to apprehend Sanders and recover the weapon used in the shootings. The criminal complaint provides a detailed account of the events, including the planning and execution of the robberies. This evidence has been crucial in bringing charges against Fulweiler and Sanders.
Legal Implications
The charges against Fulweiler and Sanders carry severe legal consequences. Armed robbery and first-degree reckless injury are serious offenses, but the felony murder charge is particularly grave. If convicted, the suspects could face significant prison time. The judge’s decision to set a high bail amount reflects the serious nature of the charges and the potential danger the suspects pose to the public.
Community Response
The Milwaukee community has been deeply affected by these incidents. The violent nature of the crimes and the loss of life have sparked concerns about safety and the prevalence of such schemes. Local authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police. The community’s response has been one of shock and sadness, as well as a call for justice for the victims.
Future Legal Proceedings
As the case moves forward, the legal proceedings will be closely watched by the community and media. The evidence presented in court will play a critical role in determining the outcome of the case. Both Fulweiler and Sanders will have the opportunity to defend themselves against the charges, but the weight of the evidence against them suggests a challenging legal battle ahead.
Conclusion
The violent robberies orchestrated by Abby Fulweiler and Sanders have left a lasting impact on the Milwaukee community. The premeditated nature of their crimes and the resulting fatalities have underscored the seriousness of their actions. As the legal process unfolds, the community will be watching closely, hoping for justice for the victims and a sense of closure for those affected by these tragic events.
