Authorities say the man charged with nearly killing a Marietta pawn shop owner has been linked to several other violent crimes.

Investigators say Tomas Torres, 18, is now linked to at least four violent robberies. Torres allegedly admitted to authorities he was the person who stabbed Doug Hadden during a botched robbery.

"From what the victim said he said give it up and I'll let you live, that was after he had been eviscerated and left for dead," Marietta Police Detective Matthew Parker told Channel 2 Action News.

"I am thankful to be alive. I can truly say I'm someone who has stared at death," said Hadden.

Court documents show Torres has admitted to two takeover style robberies.  One at an adult store on Cobb Parkway, the other several blocks away.

Another detective testified Thursday in court that Torres claims someone was making him to do these crimes.  The motive remains unclear, as very little money was taken during these robberies.

Torres remains in jail in without bond.