Press  Release:   980902


Sept. 02, 1998 - Two Shelbyville men have been arrested and charged in connection with the Aug. 20 armed robbery of  Prime Steak House, Madison Street, and the shooting of owner
Bill Katsaitis.

James Mario Starnes, 23, Oak Street, is charged with especially aggravated robbery and attempted first degree murder and Leon Terrill "Terry" Phillips, 26, Fairground Heights, is charged with especially aggravated robbery.  Bonds were set for Starnes at $450,000.00 and for Phillips $200,000.00.  

Both men were taken into custody Tuesday night and have admitted their involvement in the robbery and shooting. "Starnes has admitted he was the one who did the shooting. Phillips has admitted he was the man armed with the shotgun, but did not fire a shot," said Detective Chris Szaroleta of the Shelbyville Police Department.

"We had some early indications one of the men was involved in the robbery and shooting and then we received some additional information through Crimestoppers that tied the pieces together for us," Detective Pat Mathis remarked.

"This case was hard because both men were wearing masks and gloves," said Detective Tony Collins.