Transient accused of robbery in Coralville

CORALVILLE - A transient is accused of robbing another man at knifepoint.

According to a Coralville police criminal complaint, around 5 p.m. Sunday, the alleged victim went to Hy-Vee Gas with 34-year-old Erhan Karina in his car. At some point, police say Karina pulled a knife on the man and demanded cash.

Police said the alleged victim gave Karina $120 in $20 bills. Karina then fled on foot from the scene.

The alleged victim had a photo of Karina, which police used to positively identify him. Karina was later found riding in another vehicle, wearing the same clothing as described by the alleged victim.

Police said Karina denied robbing the man, but said they had gone to Hy-Vee Gas together. Karina had $282 in his pocket, including 13 $20 bills, police said.

Karina was arrested and faces one count of first-degree robbery, a Class B felony punishable by 25 years in prison.