In a statement Murphy described the robbery attempt as a home invasion in which the victim's life was threatened by use of a weapon.
Murphy declined comment on whether the men knew the victim.
The detective developed Adams and Whitaker, who both have past criminal records, as reputed suspects in the case.
Murphy charged the men with first-degree burglary and attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon.
As of this report the men were still confined at the Halifax County Detention Center on $50,000 bonds and have February 17 court dates.
