An 81-year-old Delaware man was lured to a home in Elkton, Maryland, where he was tortured, assaulted and robbed. Authorities say the attack began when the victim traveled to meet a woman identified as 31-year-old Taylor Falcone.
Inside the residence, 28-year-old Michael Maniscalco confronted the victim, tied him to a chair and prevented him from leaving. He repeatedly punched the man, held a knife to his throat, forced him to remove his clothing and poured hot syrup on his body, causing severe burns. Investigators say the abuse was intended to force the victim to reveal the combination to a safe at his Delaware home.
Maniscalco stole about $80, a gold chain, a gold Seiko watch, a gold bracelet and keys to a 2026 Chevrolet Corvette, a 2026 GMC Sierra and a 2016 Cadillac Escalade. The victim managed to free himself after Maniscalco fell asleep and escaped. Deputies arrested Maniscalco following a brief standoff and recovered the stolen items during a search of the residence.
Both Falcone and Maniscalco have been charged with conspiracy to commit robbery and related offenses. Maniscalco faces robbery and assault charges, while Falcone is charged with conspiracy to commit robbery and first-degree assault. They are being held without bail.
The victim was treated at a hospital and later released.
Source: 6abc.com
