Gunman in Wellsville pharmacy robbery facing court date next month

A Paola man accused of an armed robbery at a Wellsville pharmacy last year is expected to enter a plea in court next month.

Casey McDowell, 29, was arrested Oct. 27 in connection with a robbery that day at Auburn Pharmacy, 601 Main St.

He was charged with aggravated robbery, two counts of aggravated assault and possession of a controlled substance.

McDowell’s arraignment hearing — at which time he’s expected to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty or not contest — is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Monday July 13 at Franklin County District Court.

McDowell’s original arraignment hearing was scheduled for April, but was continued.

According to a complaint filed by the Franklin County Attorney’s Office, McDowell stole oxycodone while armed with a handgun.

Wellsville Police Chief Steve Gillespie previously said the suspect entered the pharmacy brandishing a handgun, ordered everyone to the floor and demanded and took drugs.

No injuries were reported during the incident.

McDowell, who was released from jail on a $10,000 bond, waived his rights to a preliminary hearing last March.