Through investigation, detectives developed a suspect in connection with the July 19 robbery of the Royal Farms. The suspect was identified as William Preston Grace, Jr., 32 of Street. A warrant was issued for his arrest on July 22, 2019. On Tuesday, July 23, detectives, while attempting to apprehend Grace, executed a search warrant on a residence in the 1200 block of Trappe Road in Street. Grace was not at the location, on Trappe Road, but was located in the 3500 block of Smith Road a short time later and taken into custody.

He was transported to the Harford County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division for questioning. While in custody, at approximately 3:18 p.m., Grace was able to escape from custody and flee the immediate area. Deputies located him less than a mile from where he escaped custody, in the 400 block of Granary Road in Forest Hill, approximately 30 minutes later. He was charged with armed robbery, robbery, first and second degree assault, reckless endangerment and other related charges. Additionally, he was charged with malicious destruction of property, theft, and escape. He is currently being held without bail at the Harford County Detention Center. At this time, the armed robbery and related charges are only connected to the July 19 robbery of the Royal Farms.

The investigation into all three robberies remain active and ongoing. Detectives are investigating to determine if the three are related. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call the Harford County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division at 410-879-7929. Those who wish to remain anonymous may report their information through the methods listed below. If the information you provide leads to the arrest and indictment of the individuals responsible for this crime, you may be eligible for a cash reward up to $2,000.00.

Submit a tip online at http://www.harfordsheriff.org/wanted
Text message: Metro Crime Stoppers: Text “CRIMES” (274637)
Begin the message “MCS,” then add the information.
Phone: Harford Crime Solvers: Call 1-888-540-8477