A Coon Rapids man pulled a knife on a woman inside his vehicle and threatened to kill her unless she gave him money, then transferred $2,300 from her bank account to himself before fleeing, according to charges.
Dennis Mokaya Nyangena, 21, faces three felony charges: first-degree aggravated robbery, second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon and threats of violence.
According to the criminal complaint, Coon Rapids police responded to a report of an assault at a residence in Coon Rapids, Anoka County, on August 17, 2026. The victim told officers she had previously lent money to Nyangena, who contacted her and asked to meet at her residence so he could pay her back.
READ MORE → Anoka County coverage
Once at the residence, Nyangena asked the victim to get into his vehicle. While the victim sat in the passenger seat, Nyangena grabbed her, pulled out a knife and demanded additional money. The complaint states that during the confrontation, Nyangena told the victim he would not kill her if she gave him the money.
Fearing for her safety, the victim handed over her phone so Nyangena could access her bank account. Nyangena then transferred $2,300 from the victim’s account to himself before leaving the area. The victim suffered lacerations on her hands from the knife, according to court records.
The charges allege Nyangena committed aggravated robbery by using a weapon to take money by force, assaulted the victim with a dangerous weapon and made threats of violence with reckless disregard for her safety.
The state requested a complaint warrant so the court can set bail and release conditions. The charge was filed Tuesday, August 18, in Anoka County District Court.
About This Charge
Minnesota distinguishes simple robbery (§ 609.24, up to 10 years) from aggravated robbery (§ 609.245), where a weapon or great bodily harm is alleged. First-degree aggravated robbery carries up to 20 years; second-degree up to 15. Carjacking is charged under § 609.247.
Related MN CRIME Coverage
Charges Filed After $20,000 Demand at Spring Lake Park Bank • Coon Rapids Man Charged After Threatening to Kill Resident • 4 Charged in Anoka County ATM Robbery That Netted Over $100K
Jurisdictional Context
Anoka County, north of the Twin Cities, is served by the Anoka County Attorney’s Office through the Tenth Judicial District. The Anoka County Courthouse in Anoka hears felony matters; the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office operates the Anoka County Jail.
