Michigan man, 72, thrashes robbery suspect, 27

COMSTOCK PARK, Mich. — Bill Barnes didn't have any luck playing a $2 lottery ticket last Friday at a service station in Comstock Park.

But he scored big-time against a man less than half his age who is accused of trying to steal $300 in cash from his pocket while he stood scratching his ticket.

Barnes, 72, pummeled the 27-year-old with six or seven punches until a store manager moved in to assist.

Lesson learned: Don't mess with a senior citizen who served in the Marines, was a runner-up in Golden Gloves boxing competition and was an iron worker for 20 years.

Jesse Daniel Rae, of Newaygo County, Mich., was charged Monday with one count of unarmed robbery.

"I guess he thought I was an easy mark," said Barnes, who was checking his lottery ticket when he felt someone stick a hand into the front pocket of his pants.

"I knew he was going for my money," Barnes said, "so I just turned around and started hitting him. I guess I acted on instinct."

Bill Dutcher, who was managing the service station at the time, quickly came around the counter and the three of them struggled through the front door, where, according to two witnesses, Dutcher slammed Rae to the ground and held him there.

Barnes said he did not suffer a scratch, but that his left arm was a little sore. He said he would probably do the same thing again, if for no other reason than what he would face back home.

"I wouldn't want my wife to give me hell for lettin' that guy get my money," he said with a smile.