Man Accused Of Impersonating Detroit Fire Inspector Charged In 2 Gas Station Robberies

DETROIT (WWJ) - A 45-year-old man accused of impersonating a Detroit Fire Department official has been charged in connection with two gas station robberies.

Shawn Daniel Ellesin is expected to be arraigned Thursday on multiple charges, including larceny, felon in possession, felony firearm and impersonating a firefighter.

Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy said Ellesin allegedly arrived at both businesses claiming he was there to inspect the fire extinguisher, before pulling off his capers.

The first robbery happened around 8 a.m. on June 20 at a gas station on E. State Fair and John R. After Ellesin allegedly identified himself as an inspector, the clerk allowed him behind the safety glass for the alleged inspection. It's alleged that Ellesin picked up the clerk's firearm, put it in his pocket and left the station.

The second robbery happened around 9 a.m. on July 12 at a gas station on Woodward and Forest avenues. Ellesin, who again allegedly presented himself as a fire extinguisher inspector, was allowed into the office after telling the clerk he needed access to the equipment. It's alleged that while he was in an office, Ellesin removed a large amount of cash and left the location.

Both incidents were captured on video surveillance systems. On Monday, police distributed still photos from the videos in an attempt to identify Ellesin. Police haven't yet said if tips led to his arrest or if Ellesin turned himself in.

For the June incident, Ellesin is charged with larceny of a firearm, larceny in a building, felon in possession, felony firearm and impersonating a firefighter. For the July incident, Ellesin is charged with larceny in a building and impersonating a firefighter.