Transient arrested in Coralville parking lot robbery

A transient has been arrested in connection with a robbery that took place in the parking lot of a Walmart store in Coralville.

Calvin Pearson was arrested Thursday and charged with second-degree robbery and a probation violation in connection with the Oct. 16 robbery. The 42-year-old Pearson is accused of helping an elderly couple by bringing the items they bought to their car.

Authorities allege Pearson then got into the back seat of the car and placed a motel room key card to the male victim's throat, pretending it was a knife. According to police, Pearson then demanded the man hand over his wallet, and the woman her purse.

Authorities did not say what led to Pearson's arrest. He was being held Friday in the Johnson County Jail.

-- Associated Press