Medford Men Arrested After Beating, Robbing Man

Two men from Medford are facing serious charges after police say they violently beat and robbed a man on Surrey Street last Thursday morning.

The victim, 23, believed he was meeting a girl he had met on an internet dating site, but instead he was met by Eric Darden and Bryan Newell, both 20.

According to police, the victim said he went to Surrey Street around 2 a.m. to meet up with a girl to smoke marijuana, but the suspects posed as the woman online to lure the victim. The victim was beaten over the head with a baseball bat and struck by a stick-like object.

Police say the victim was robbed of his phone, keys, an undisclosed amount of cash, and marijuana. The victim phoned police after struggling home. He later was transported to the hospital for the treatment of a large gash to the head.

After looking over area surveillance footage, police identified Darden and Newell as the suspects and learned they each had outstanding warrants. They were placed under arrest after police inquired about the robbery. They were charged with armed robbery, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and larceny.

A third suspect was found to be connected to the robbery. Police did not identify the individual, but they say charges will be filed.

Darden and Newell are also allegedly connected to similar street robberies in Medford, police said. Police are investigating the incidents at this time. Anyone with information can contact the Medford Police Detectives at 781-391-6767.