MIDDLETOWN -- A judge set bond at $50,000 for a city man accused of attempted robbery in Veterans Memorial Park.

Monte Watson, 49, of 180 Bailey Road, stood before Middletown Superior Court Judge Patrick Clifford less than 24 hours after reportedly threatening a person at Veterans Park and demanding money.

Police say Watson approached the alleged victim while he was sitting in a lawn chair at the park. Watson reportedly asked the man for a few dollars. When the victim refused, Watson said, "Give me a couple of dollars or I will take it from you," according to the police report. Watson then fled the scene on foot and the victim called police.

Watson was spotted by police a short time later in the area of Washington and Broad streets. He was apprehended on Fisher Road after a brief foot chase, police said.

Police charged Watson with criminal attempt to commit third-degree robbery, criminal attempt to commit sixth-degree larceny and interfering with an officer.

Based on Watson's criminal history, which includes arrests for robbery, escape and interfering, Clifford set bond at $50,000 and continued the case to April 8.

Watson has pending cases in city court for third-degree assault and sixth degree larceny, according to court officials.
