The man accused of robbing a Casper restaurant and convenience store in late December could face up to life in prison if convicted of two charges brought against him Thursday in Natrona County District Court.

Levar Ellis Thompson, 40, pleaded not guilty to two counts of aggravated robbery. Each of those charges carries a sentence of five to 25 years imprisonment upon conviction.

However, Thompson is charged as a habitual criminal in each count. Under state law, he could end up with a life sentence if convicted of either count.

Thompson was arrested Jan. 21 after police found him trying to leave the Ramkota Hotel.

Thompson, who was convicted of third-degree sexual assault in Laramie County in 2000, is also charged with failure to register as a sex offender in a separate criminal case.

Thompson remains jailed on $250,000 bond pending trial.

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