By Cheryl Black

COLORADO SPRINGS - Suspects face upgraded charges in the Cripple Creek robberies. It happened on Sunday around 9:30 p.m. at two different locations. Witnesses say the suspects got out of their car, demanded cash and pistol whipped the victim outside the Gold Rush Casino. Ten minutes later police they believe the suspects robbed another person outside the Double Eagle Casino. Authorities say around five shots were fired. The victim was treated on scene, but wasn't taken to the hospital.

Cripple Creek Police Chief Gary Hamilton says, "it's very surprising, but i think with the economy and they way things are going there's going to be more random issues like that in the future and for us too probably."

After the robbery police find the suspects car and chase them down highway sixty seven. Teller County Sheriff's Department and Colorado State Patrol help Cripple Creek Police with the call. Stop sticks were used by the State Patrol a quarter of a mile south of Divide. Sheriff's Deputies use the stop sticks near Mueller State Park. The chase ended when the suspect's car hits the stop sticks.

The General Manager of Gold Rush Casino Mike Hirsch says, "Cripple Creek is a safe town. We have police officers and gaming officers that are armed and we offer security escorts to cars if they would like."

Three suspects are in custody. Christy Lemon faces charges of vehicular Eluding and 2 counts of Aggravated Robbery and Reckless Driving. Lukas Cottrell and Michael Bittinger's charges have been upgraded to Attempted Second Degree Murder they also face Aggravated Robbery Charges. The suspects were arraigned on their upgraded charges on Tuesday they remain in the Teller County Jail.