Alleged robber: 'Is this a bad idea?'

La Crosse police said a Viterbo University student walking to the campus fine arts center late Wednesday noticed a man following him for about a block before the man started attempting to punch him and jump on his back, the La Crosse Tribune reported Wednesday.

However, the student told police the man abruptly stopped his attack to ask: "Is this a bad idea?"

The attacker gave his name as "Mason" and the student advised him to go home and sleep, police said.

However, police said a man matching the same description attacked a 25-year-old man shortly after the first incident and stole an iPod. Police said the robber apologized and helped the victim recover his eyeglasses before fleeing.

Mason Audetat, 21, was arrested Friday on suspicion of robbery and disorderly conduct.

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