VISTA–Sheriff’s department detectives arrested five juveniles in connection with a robbery last month at the Vista Skate Park, authorities said.
The juveniles were charged with robbery, gang crime violations, and possession of stolen property. Most of them were already on probation and were placed on probation holds. On February 26, at approximately 5:30 p.m., a 19-year-old man was walking to the Vista Skate Park located at 510 North Santa Fe Avenue. The victim was approached by a group of males. After a short verbal exchange, the group of males began to physically assault the male and stole his backpack. During the attack, one of the suspects displayed a knife. The victim was able to take the knife from the attacker before running from the area. During the crime, the suspects stole the victim’s backpack, wallet, and cell phone. The victim suffered minor injuries from the assault.
Patrol Sheriff’s deputies responded and conducted a preliminary investigation. Detectives from the Street Narcotics and Gang Detail conducted an in depth investigation and discovered the crime was recorded on surveillance cameras from surrounding businesses. During the course of the investigation, it was determined four known gang members and one non-gang member were responsible for the crime. Some of the suspects were recorded “flashing” gang signs during the course of the crime.
