Bemidji Man Charged With Robbery

A Bemidji man accused of assaulting a woman before robbing her has been charged in Beltrami County Courthouse.

Gerome James Winkler, 25, was charged with one count of simple robbery. His bail is set at $25,000 without conditions and $10,000 with conditions.

According to a criminal complaint, the victim told officers Winkler approached her in her residence, threw her to the ground, kicked, stomped on her chest and arms and repeatedly assaulted her with a closed fist. Winkler took her cellphone and her purse before fleeing the residence.

The victim was transported to Sanford Hospital, where she was evaluated for injuries including a fractured wrist.

Winkler had three prior theft convictions since 2008.

He is set to appear in court July 18. If convicted, Winkler could face 10 years in prison, a $20,000 fine, or both.