Suspect Arrested After Armed Robbery of The Rooster Restaurant in Hartsville

A Hartsville man faces multiple felony charges following an armed robbery at a local restaurant on Friday, May 29, 2026. The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Charles Belangia IV, is currently held in custody after allegedly holding up an employee at gunpoint.

The Gunpoint Holdup at 'The Rooster'

Hartsville Police Department officers responded to a call regarding an armed robbery at The Rooster, a popular eatery located at 136 East Carolina Avenue. Upon arriving at the scene, responding officers found a restaurant employee visibly shaking and crying. According to the police report, the employee stated that a white male entered the establishment, walked around for a brief period, and then approached her. He then brandished a black pistol and demanded cash from the register.

Fearing for her safety, the employee complied with the gunman's demands and handed over several hundred dollars from the drawer. The suspect then fled the premises with the cash. No injuries were reported during the encounter.

Arrest and Charges

Following a rapid investigation by the police, officers arrested Charles Belangia IV. He has been charged with several offenses, including:

• Armed robbery
• Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
• Failure to appear for criminal domestic violence

Booking records indicate that Belangia remains incarcerated at the W. Glenn Campbell Detention Center. A judge set his bond at $260,000 for the armed robbery charge.

Business Robbery Prevention and Safety Tips

Armed robberies pose a significant threat to retail and restaurant establishments. Business owners and staff should consider the following safety guidelines to mitigate risks and protect employees:

• Keep cash levels low: Use a drop safe and advertise that the register contains limited cash to discourage potential robbers.
• Enhance visibility: Ensure the cash register area is clearly visible from the street, and keep windows free of large posters or advertisements.
• Install surveillance systems: Place high-resolution security cameras at all entry and exit points, as well as near the register. Visible security cameras act as a strong deterrent.
• Train staff on emergency response: Employees should be trained to remain calm, avoid sudden movements, comply with the robber's demands, and observe the suspect's physical characteristics to assist police later.
• Security lighting: Maintain bright lighting both inside and outside the establishment, particularly around entrances and parking lots.

Sources

This report is synthesized from the following news coverage:

• WMBF News - Man accused of robbing Hartsville restaurant at gunpoint