Houston Superior Court Judge Edward D. Lukemire sentenced James Ray Ussery, age 37, of Rincon, GA to three concurrent life sentences today for three armed robberies committed in June, 2012 in Warner Robins. Additionally, Ussery was sentenced to an additional five years in prison for possession of a firearm during the commission of the armed robberies. Ussery pled guilty before the court today to all

the charges brought against him.

"The offense of Armed Robbery is one of the most serious. It is not only a violation of a person's property, but more importantly a threat to life," Houston County District Attorney George Hartwig said. "We will continue to work are, as in this case, to make sure that armed robbers in Houston County are sentenced as severely as possible."

This case was prosecuted by Deputy Chief Assistant Daniel Bibler. Ussery was represented by Assistant Public Defender Robert Gurd. Any questions can be directed to Bibler at 478-218-4810.

"To be robbed at gunpoint is a serious offense that has serious emotional implications for the innocent victims, whether they work behind the counter or are just going about their daily live" Houston County Deputy Chief Assistant D.A. Daniel Bibler said. "This case shows that the act of tramautizing an innocent person by robbing them with a clear threat to kill will lead to the maximum penalty provided by

law in Houston County."

On June 23, 2012, two adult women were visiting a grave site in a cemetery in Warner Robins when Ussery approached them in his car and pointed a pistol at both of them. He threatened to shoot them and demanded that they give him their purses. He drove off with the money, credit cards, and personal items contained in both purses. The victims were later able to identify Ussery from a photo lineup.

Later, on June 29, Ussery wrapped bandages around his face and entered a Dollar General Store on Watson Blvd. He approached the clerk and pointed a pistol at her demanding money. Ussrey was able to steal over $900 and left in the same car that was identified in the previous armed robbery on the 23rd. An anonymous tip led to a search of Ussery's residence where bandages and clothing matching the description of the robber were found.