February 25, 2015
Current Events
After his car died on him, the 55-year-old Robertson spent the last 10 years walking 21 miles each way everyday from his rooming house to his factory job in Detroit. His simple life and modest means attracted no attention, allowing him to travel freely through some of Detroit’s most dangerous neighborhoods. However, once news of Robertson receiving more than a quarter of a million dollars and a shiny brand new car went national, his simple life in a Detroit rooming house changed dramatically — and not for the better.
Last week, James Robertson moved out of the rooming house he called home for 15 years and asked Detroit police for emergency protection, saying he had reason to fear for his life. His decision was fueled by hoards of people constantly asking him for money, as well as the recent disappearance and/or death of several Detroit residents who also came into instant cash.
An 86-year-old Detroit man disappeared in December and was found dead 3 days later after he won a $20,000 lottery game.
“(Robertson) knew about that story, and I also know about an incident in the 1st Precinct where a gentleman was killed after he allegedly won some money,” Police Captain Aric Tosqui said.
Current Events
Crime-prevention specialists have since offered Robertson temporary living quarters and are keeping his location a secret to most of the people he knows. He may also be forced to quit the job he loves, out of fear that someone would almost certainly attack and rob him while going to or coming from work.
It’s unfortunate that the kind act of strangers who reached out to help someone in need, has ended with a bulls eye on Robertson’s back.
"It's unfortunate that the kind act of strangers who reached out to help someone in need, has ended with a bulls eye on Robertson's back."
Couldn't agree with you more DJ. Could NOT agree with you more….(sigh!)