A Binghamton man who admitted stealing items from a store last fall and threatening an employee with a weapon will serve at least 12 years in prison.
In January, Johnnie N. Hardwick, 41, pleaded guilty in Broome County Court to a charge of second-degree attempted robbery, a felony, in connection with an incident Oct. 21, 2021 at Weis Markets on Pennsylvania Avenue in Binghamton.
Hardwick admitted he entered the business and stole merchandise. When confronted by a store employee, Hardwick pulled out a large knife and threatened to stab the worker.
He was apprehended a short time later by officers from the Binghamton Police Department.
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Hardwick was sentenced Thursday in Broome County Court to a minimum of 12 years and a maximum of life in prison. The sentence is based in part on his prior criminal record.
Hardwick is classified as a persistent violent felony offender under New York state law for a record that includes felony convictions for first-degree sexual abuse in 2011 in Broome County, and first-degree attempted robbery in 2002 in New York City.
“Defendant Hardwick’s criminal history began in Queens in 2000. He has made no effort to lead a law-abiding life,” Broome County District Attorney Michael Korchak said following Hardwick’s plea. “Therefore, it is necessary to protect the citizens of our community for a lengthy period of time. This sentence accomplishes that.”
Hardwick also waived his right to appeal. He has been in custody at the Broome County Jail since his guilty plea.
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