A Houston group home manager is accused of assaulting an elderly resident during a robbery, using a pillow to smother the man while an accomplice stole his wallet
Joe James, 40, has been charged with aggravated robbery after the incident happened on Oct. 20 at a group home on Kingsbury Street.
Recommended Videos
According to court documents, the victim, 88-year-old Pedro Benavides Jr., reported that James entered his room holding a pillow, pressed it over his face, and attempted to smother him.
During the attack, a second individual, identified as Brandi Ricks, allegedly stole Benavides’ wallet containing $200.
Both suspects fled the room after Benavides fought back.
Authorities said Ricks initially denied involvement but later returned the wallet to the victim. Surveillance and body camera footage reviewed by investigators corroborated the victim’s account.
Witnesses, including other residents of the group home, confirmed the victim’s story and identified James, known as “Sleepy,” as the manager of the home at the time.
More Stories Like This In Our Email Newsletter
