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Clifton, NJ Man Accused Of Kidnapping, Robbery After 'Red Bull' Muggings

PARAMUS, N.J. (CBSNewYork) - This is probably not what an energy drink company wants people to have the energy for.

A Clifton, N.J. man is accused of a series of robberies in which he allegedly forced people to try to buy Red Bull, Paramus Police said.

Eddie J. Johnson faces robbery, kidnapping and weapons charges.

Back in February, Johnson allegedly approached a woman in the parking lot at the Outlets at Bergen Town Center and demanded money, forcing the victim to drive to an ATM to take out cash, according to police. The woman deliberately entered the wrong PIN number, so Johnson forced her drive to a market and purchase $70 of Red Bull energy drink, police said.

In August, Johnson allegedly approached a man in the underground AMC parking lot at Westfield Garden State Plaza mall and demanded cash. He then forced the victim to drive him to Paterson and stole $30 and the victim's iPhone, police said.

Last week, Johnson again approached someone at the Westfield Garden State Plaza mall and asked for a ride to the other side of the mall, according to police. The victim said yes, and then Johnson got into the car and pulled out a knife, police said. He then forced the victim to withdraw $60 and drive to a market to buy more Red Bull. The victim's card was denied, however.

Johnson is being held on $500,000 bail. He's due in court later this month.

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