Edward Palokaj
ROSEVILLE, Michigan — A 39-year-old man is facing charges after police say he tortured a Kentwood man in a Roseville basement last Friday.
According to a release from Roseville Police, the 52-year-old victim, who works in Southfield, was bound to a chair, hit in the head and had his skin punctured with a hammer and nails.
The suspect, Roseville resident Edward Palokaj, was allegedly trying to coerce the Kentwood man into giving him a $14,000 loan as a down payment for a restaurant he wanted to buy. When the man refused, police say Palokaj forced him into the basement and tied him to the chair.
Palokaj also allegedly threatened to harm the man’s family. The man eventually agreed to pay Palokaj the money, and contacted his boss to request the money.
When the two men arrived at the Southfield business, police say the boss became suspicious and called police. Palokaj was arrested and is facing charges of torture, extortion and unlawful imprisonment. The torture charge carries a maximum penalty of up to life in prison.
Police said the victim’s injuries were minor and he has since been treated and released from the hospital.
Palokaj’s bond was set at $250,000. He’s expected back in Macomb County District Court on Aug. 19 at 8:15 a.m., according to a press release.
