Sentence not reduced for robberies

A judge on Friday rejected a convicted robber’s plea for lighter sentences.

Mario Jordan, 19, Topeka, was sentenced to 59 months in prison for aggravated robbery and 32 months each for two counts of robbery. The sentences will be served concurrently, with allowances for the time he already spent in jail awaiting the outcome of his cases.

Douglas County District Judge Jack Murphy said the crimes were too serious to allow the Topeka man to serve anything less than the standard sentences.

Jordan was arrested following a police investigation into a series of armed robberies at Lawrence convenience stores and other businesses. He was initially charged with five aggravated robberies. Four cases were dropped in return for his guilty plea on the remaining charges.

Jordan apologized to the judge for his actions. His attorney, Steven Rosel, noted the support from several family members and friends of Jordan who were in the courtroom. Assistant District Attorney Greg Benefiel opposed a lighter sentence.