Utica man arrested for attempted naked robbery

UTICA, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) — A Utica man was arrested early in the morning of Wednesday, June 12 after he was caught trying to steal a vehicle on Genesee Street while naked, according to police Utica Police.

Officers were dispatched to the 200 block of Genesee Street around 5 a.m. Wednesday morning. When they arrived, they spoke with the victim, who said he arrived at work and got out to check something, leaving the driver's door open.

As the victim turned toward the vehicle, he said he noticed a naked man – later identified as Xavier Holmes, 30, of Utica – entering through the driver's side door, who allegedly attempted to steal the vehicle. The victim then tried to grab the man, but because he was not wearing any clothes, Holmes was able to free himself.

The victim and suspect then began to fight. In doing so, the victim managed to grab onto his hair from the back seat. The fight continued as Holmes tried to flee. According to the victim's account, he was then dragged by the vehicle and let go of Holmes in order to avoid further injury.

Shortly after, a call for vigilance was launched regarding the stolen vehicle. Oneida County Sheriff's deputies were able to locate the vehicle a short time later; however, Holmes failed to comply with the deputies and initiated pursuit. Eventually, officers were able to stop the vehicle in Madison County and Holmes was subsequently arrested and transported back to the Utica Police Department.

Holmes is currently charged with second-degree robbery, a class C violent felony.

According to police, additional charges have been and will be imposed by the other agencies involved.