Watch CBS News

Police Arrest Suspect Accused Of Punching Man With Cerebral Palsy

WEST CHESTER, Pa. (CBS) — A man accused of sucker punching another man with cerebral palsy has been arrested.

The Chester Sheriff's Office tells Eyewitness News 29-year-old Barry Baker was taken into custody around 8 a.m. Monday in Uwchlan Township.

"We're pleased that Mr. Baker is in custody," said Chester County Sheriff Carolyn "Bunny" Welsh. "It was a great effort by multiple agencies."

Baker was wanted for assaulting the victim outside a 7-Eleven convenience store in West Chester on May 10.

Police: Video Captures Suspect Punching Man With Cerebral Palsy In Face Outside 7-Eleven 

In a video that even seasoned members of law enforcement say is difficult to watch, a man with cerebral palsy is minding his own business outside a West Chester 7-Eleven, when police say Baker mocked and then clocked the man in the face.

"This is so blatant and so absolutely repulsive to anybody who sees if," Chester County Sheriff Carolyn "Bunny" Welch told Eyewitness News.

Suspect Who Assaulted Disabled Man Previously Stole Metal Flag Holders From Veterans' Graves 

Baker has an extensive criminal history, according to Chester County court records. They show he's been in jail before for theft and forgery.

He has pleaded guilty to stealing metal flag holders from veterans' graves at Chester County cemeteries and selling them to a scrap metal company.

He was charged with simple assault and related offenses by the West Chester Borough Police Department.  Baker was also wanted for failure to appear for a domestic relations matter and on an Adult Probation warrant.

Baker has been transferred to Chester County Prison to await a preliminary hearing.

Authorities say Baker was on the run for 10 days and was eventually captured, hiding at a hotel.

The hotel room was paid for in cash and booked under an alias, but tips from the community led authorities to him Monday morning.

After a court appearance Monday afternoon, baker is now being held on $100,000 straight cash bail.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.