Alton man facing potential 45-year sentence

June 19--ALTON -- An Alton man could get up to 45 years in prison if convicted of charges of home invasion, armed robbery, unlawful possession of a motor vehicle and aggravated criminal sexual abuse.

Charged is Malik S. Carter, 19, of the 3500 block of Meridocia Street, Alton, who is accused of entering a home in the 1000 block of Union Street, Alton, armed with a handgun and a rifle, while the residents were at home.

Also charged with unlawful possession of a motor vehicle in connection with the same incident is Otis Harris, 22, of the 400 block of Jefferson Avenue, Alton, for allegedly driving the vehicle that was taken from the victims.

Police said the incident was on May 3, shortly after an outdoor party at the residence and that the defendants were acquainted with the residents.

Police conducted an investigation in part by talking to people who are familiar with the incident. The investigation required several weeks to complete before the charges were filed by the Madison County State's Attorney.

The home invasion charge alleges Carter entered the home and struck one of the residents in the head with a handgun.

There are four armed robbery counts against him, two for each of the residents. The charges all claim that he took keys, a video game system, the vehicle and celluar phones. There are different counts for different legal versions of the same act.

The criminal sexual abuse charge alleges he fondled a sex organ of one of the residents.

Both suspects are charged with possession of a stolen 2004 Honda Accord.

Bail on carter is set at $500,000. Bail on Harris is set at $75,000.

Sanford J. Schmidt can be reached at 618-208-6449 or Twitter @SanfordSan.

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