Victim turns table on robbers, deputies say

A Clearwater man used a construction knife to defend himself against three robbers in an East Naples neighborhood Monday morning, Collier County Sheriff's deputies said.

Charged with robbery and grand theft were: Corky Bryant, 48, of 2827 Seventh Ave. N.E., Golden Gate Estates; Ross Illyes, 25, of 3177 Lunar St., East Naples; and Erik Bear, 22, of 1765 Van Buren Ave., East Naples.

Daniel O'Sullivan, 50, told deputies he was robbed by three or four men near Illyes' home shortly before 5 a.m. One of the men, he said, was carrying a baseball bat.

O'Sullivan said he was in fear for his life, and slashed one of the men with his construction knife, cutting him on the neck.

The men robbed O'Sullivan of his knife, bicycle and narcotics, deputies said.

Deputies found O'Sullivan on Van Buren Avenue, and he led them to Illyes' home. Illyes and Bear were arrested at the home. Bryant was arrested on Van Buren Avenue.

Bryant was transported to Naples Community Hospital for injuries suffered during the altercation. Illyes later said he didn't feel well, and was also transported.

Bryant and Illyes were treated and released. All three were transported to the Naples Jail Center.

Investigators are still looking for a fourth suspect they believe may have been involved in the robbery.