Utica man arrested in attempted naked robbery

Suspect allegedly dragged victim as he drove away

UTICA, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) — A Utica man was arrested early in the morning on Wednesday, June 12, after he was caught attempting to steal a vehicle on Genesee Street while naked, according to Utica Police.

Officers were dispatched to the 200 block of Genesee Street at approximately 5 a.m. Wednesday morning. Upon their arrival, they spoke with the victim, who stated that he had arrived to work and stepped out to check on something, leaving the driver’s door open.

As the victim turned back toward the vehicle, he said he noticed a naked male — later identified as 30-year-old Xavier Holmes of Utica — entering the driver’s side door, allegedly attempting to steal the vehicle. The victim then attempted to grab the male, but due to having no clothes on, Holmes was able to get free.

The victim and the suspect then began to fight. As they were doing so, the victim was able to grab onto the victim’s hair from the back seat. The fight continued as Holmes attempted to drive away. According to the victim’s account, he was then dragged by the vehicle and let go of Holmes in an effort to avoid further injury.

A “be on the lookout” call was released regarding the stolen vehicle soon after. Oneida County Sheriffs’ deputies were able to locate the vehicle soon after that; however, Holmes failed to comply with deputies and initiated a pursuit. Ultimately, deputies were able to stop the vehicle in Madison County, and Holmes was subsequently arrested and transported back to the Utica Police Department.

Holmes is currently being charged with second degree Robbery, a Class C Violent Felony.

According to police, additional charges were and will be levied by the other agencies involved.