It’s prison time for a Berrien Springs man who prosecutors say forced an elderly woman to write a check to him.

Ernesto Japon Lopez, 68, pleaded guilty to unarmed robbery and was sentenced to 24 months to 15 years in prison.

He must pay $200 in fines and costs and nearly $400 in restitution, though that figure could change during an upcoming restitution hearing.

Leader Publications reports the incident occurred April in Oronoko Township when he forced an elderly woman to write a check to him.

He had initially been charged with armed robbery and felonious assault but those charges were dismissed.