Multiple People Arrested in Armed Robbery Setup
What was supposed to be a hair appointment turned into a robbery and ambush for a barber in Florida. More than a dozen people were allegedly involved in the late-night setup.
Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office investigators say several Florida teenagers are facing armed robbery charges after allegedly luring a barber to a park under the guise of a late-night haircut appointment. A group of masked suspects reportedly ambushed and robbed the victim.
The robbery occurred shortly after midnight on May 31 at Okeeheelee Park South near Forest Hill Boulevard. Investigators say the victim drove to the park after receiving an Instagram message requesting a haircut. The victim was accompanied by a friend.
Deputies allege the suspect remained in contact with the victim during the drive and sent a location pin directing the pair to a secluded dead-end area of the park.
When they arrived, authorities say another person approached with a handgun and demanded their belongings. Investigators allege that moments later, between 10 and 13 masked suspects armed with handguns and rifles emerged from nearby woods and parked vehicles, surrounding the victims in what deputies described as a coordinated ambush.
The barber was assaulted and robbed of his iPhone, eyeglasses, and more than $1,000 worth of barber equipment. His companion told deputies he was held at gunpoint and forced to surrender personal property during the robbery.
Detectives say surveillance footage from the park showed several suspects arriving before the victims, handling firearms, gathering near the meeting location, and hiding in wooded areas before carrying out the robbery. The group fled the scene in a white Ford van and a black Honda Accord.
Using surveillance video, license plate reader data, phone records, and witness interviews, investigators identified a 17-year-old boy as the person who allegedly arranged the meeting. The victim knew the teen from high school and was able to identify him from photos and surveillance images.
Three additional defendants have also been arrested in connection with the case. Investigators believe additional suspects may have participated in the robbery.
The 17-year-old has been charged with two counts of robbery with a firearm. The investigation remains ongoing.
In Florida, a 17-year-old is generally considered a juvenile, but that does not mean the case will stay in juvenile court. Because armed robbery is a felony, prosecutors often have the authority to seek adult prosecution by direct filing the charges to adult felony court.
When deciding how to proceed, prosecutors may consider factors such as:
- The teen’s age.
- Whether a firearm was used.
- The seriousness of the offense.
- Whether anyone was injured.
- The teen’s prior criminal history.
- Whether the crime was planned or involved multiple participants.
Contact Us Today
Robbery is a serious crime that tends to encompass multiple elements such as assault, force, and violence. As such, it is a violent crime that comes with significant penalties.
A Fort Myers robbery attorney from Hollander & Hanuka can help you if you have been accused of such a crime. We can provide essential legal guidance and advocate for the best possible outcome in your case. Schedule a consultation today by filling out the online form or calling (239) 332-3300.
Source:
wpbf.com/article/florida-pbso-suspects-ambushed-teen-barber-in-armed-robbery-setup/71930423
