Man caught after robbing a Publix liquor store with a knife and leaving empty-handed.
The incident occurred Thursday evening at about 6:30PM at the Publix Liquor Store located at 500 E Lake Rd. in Palm Harbor.
According to deputies, the suspect displayed a knife and told the cashier “I’m here to rob you” and demanding money.
After a discussion with the cashier, the suspect exited the liquor store without money and was reported to have left the knife on the counter in the liquor store.
A K9 Unit located the suspect, identified as 48 year old Michael Clarkson of Palm Harbor. He was standing outside, in the rear of the liquor store.
Through various investigative techniques Clarkson was positively identified and he subsequently confessed to the offense.
Clarkson was arrested and charged with one count of robbery with a weapon and was transported to the Pinellas County Jail without further incident.
The investigation continues.