Tony Swinney is no stranger to Yazoo County law enforcement with three felony convictions for house burglary and one for escaping from jail.
Swinney’s criminal career has come to an end, however, as he has been sentenced to life in prison after assaulting a 73-year-old man and robbing a store in Madison County.
A Madison County jury sentence Swinney, 26, of Bentonia, to two life sentences for the April 2 robbery of Bullet’s convenience store in Flora.
Audrey Swinney, Tony Swinney’s sister, was sentenced to 15 years for driving the getaway vehicle.
On April 2 Tony Swinney and a juvenile entered Bullet’s and attacked the elderly owner. They stole money from the register and a room behind the counter.
The victim recognized Audrey Swinney as they were driving away because she was a former employee of the store. She was later arrested and gave a statement that led to the arrest of the juvenile.
The juvenile also confessed and gave information that helped lead to Tony Swinney’s arrest.
The robbery and assault was also captured on the store’s surveillance camera.
The juvenile testified against Tony Swinney during the trial. His case is being handled in youth court. Audrey Swinney pleaded guilty.
Michael Guest, Madison County district attorney, said Swinney’s criminal history coupled with this violent crime led to the life sentences.
“Swinney is a four time convicted felon who had recently been released on parole when he assaulted and robbed a 72-year-old store clerk,” Guest said. “Swinney attacked a hard working senior member of our community who was only attempting to operate a business and support his family.”
