Mansfield man refuses to be a victim

The Mansfield News Journal is reporting that a criminal armed with a BB gun met his match in the form of a 130-lb former wrestler whose home he had just broken into.

From the story:

[Homeowner Oakus] Cox said [Ronnie] Nichols had been to his house earlier that night, asking to use the phone and borrow $20. Cox accommodated both requests.

Police reported Nichols returned about 4 a.m., wearing a ski mask and gloves and brandishing a handgun that turned out to be a BB gun. The alleged gunman ordered Cox to empty his pockets. In disgust, Cox said he threw his money on the floor.

When Nichols reportedly bent over to get the money, Cox burst into action.

"I tackled him," Cox said. "I wrestled through high school (at Mansfield Senior). I had him in a choke-hold."

The robber escaped with the money, but left the gun behind.

Cox pulled off his assailant's ski mask during the tussle and later identified Nichols. Even though the robber had a gun, Cox said he felt no fear.

"I'm a firm believer that if it was meant to be, it was meant to be," he said. "I go to church. I know where I'm going."

Police also arrested a second suspect who drove a getaway car.

"We're dealing with people that we're very familiar with," Lt. John Wendling told the newspaper. "They need to be put in prison."