SerpApi.Org
EDWARDSVILLE — An Alton man released from the Illinois Department of Corrections in February for “very similar crimes” was charged Monday after an alleged June/July crime spree that included armed robbery, burglary and attempted burglary.
Willie L. Carter, 53, of Alton, was charged July 20 with two counts of armed robbery, both Class X felonies; and burglary and attempted burglary, both Class 2 felonies.
The Alton Police Department presented the case.
According to court documents, on June 8, Carter allegedly took cash from the Hit N. Run convenience store at 1818 Washington Avenue by threatening force while armed with a gun; on June 18, took cash from the Shell gas station at 2500 Brown Street by threatening force while carrying a gun; on June 23, threw a concrete block through the front of a building; and on July 7, entered the BP Amoco at 4200 College Ave. to commit theft.
Carter was ordered remanded to jail.
According to a petition to deny pre-trial release filed by the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office and statements by the Alton Police Department, Carter had been released from the Department of Corrections in February for “very similar crimes,” including armed robbery and throwing a brick through a store window.
Within a month, he allegedly committed four different crimes, two while armed.
During the two armed robberies, investigators allege Carter entered the businesses wearing a mask, displayed a handgun, and demanded money from employees before fleeing on foot. No injuries were reported in either incident.
Carter was taken into custody on July 17, 2026, and was charged on July 20.
"These incidents understandably caused concern within our business community, and I hope these charges provide reassurance that those who commit violent crimes in Alton will be thoroughly investigated and held accountable," said Chief Jarrett Ford.
