By admin 
ANDERSON, S.C. (WHNS/Gray News) – A South Carolina man is recovering after being the reported victim of a robbery and attack in a shopping center parking lot.
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Christopher Holdt, who is well-known in the area and frequents the Anderson Station shopping center, says teens attacked him out of nowhere earlier this week.
Holdt said two teens came up from behind, attacked him, and took off with his cash on Monday night.
According to the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, when deputies arrived at the scene, they found several people helping Holdt, who was seriously injured.
Holdt has a genetic condition that affected the development of the bones in his face. He also has a tracheostomy.
“No one, especially a vulnerable member of our community, should ever have to endure such a senseless and violent attack. Mr. Holdt did not deserve what happened to him,” Anderson County Sheriff Chad McBride said.
After reviewing surveillance footage, authorities said two of the teens attacked Holdt while the third waited in a nearby parking lot acting as the getaway driver.
Deputies said two of the suspects, both 17 years old, have been charged as adults and booked into the Anderson County Detention Center.
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One of the suspects, identified as Sheldon Almers, has been charged with accessory after the act for his role as the getaway driver, deputies said.
A second teen, Kenneth Croegaert, has been charged with armed robbery and assault and battery by mob.
The sheriff’s office said since the third suspect is 16 years old, his identity will not be released. But he will be charged through the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice.
“We are committed to ensuring those responsible are held accountable,” McBride continued. “It is especially troubling to see teenagers beginning their adult lives by becoming involved in violent criminal behavior.”
Holdt said the teens who attacked him took about $200 from him.
“They threatened me with a gun, then they grabbed my money,” Holdt said. “They punched me. I fell on my hip, and they took off down the hill down to the main street.”
On social media, people said Holdt is homeless, but he clarified he’s not.
“I am incredibly proud of our detectives for their relentless work on this investigation, as well as the members of our community who stepped forward with information and offered assistance to Mr. Holdt,” McBride said.
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