A peaceful morning at a Crossville nail studio was disrupted by a ruckus Saturday morning when a Cookeville man allegedly stormed into the nail salon, started an argument with the business owner and caused thousands of dollars in damages.
Robert Lane Steakley, 49, of 854 Ashwood Dr., Cookeville, was arrested after the incident and was charged with simple assault and vandalism May 3 after the altercation at Tony's Nails on Hwy. 70 E. in Crossville.
Patrolman J. Brink responded Saturday morning to Tony's for a fight that had occurred. As Brink pulled in he witnessed a white Ford pickup truck leaving the scene. A call then came over the radio that the suspect was leaving the scene in a white Ford pickup and Brink reported he then stopped the vehicle. Steakley admitted he was involved in a fight at the business, according to Brink's report.
He said Steakley had a cut on his hand and scratches on his face.
Crossville Patrolman Chad Withrow was at the scene at Tony's Nails and the owner of the business, Tony Phan, said Steakley entered the business and started a fight with him. In doing so, Steakley allegedly damaged a chair, 75 bottles of nail polish, carpet, a nail dryer and nail station, according to the report.
Witnesses told Withrow they saw Steakley throwing several items throughout the business. Total damage in the incident was estimated at $3,800.
Steakley was transported to the Cumberland County Justice Center for booking. He was held under a total bond of $11,000. Steakley is reportedly employed with Steakley Hair Design in Cookeville.
Steakley faces a General Sessions Court hearing May 12.
