Three teenagers in Florida have been arrested for allegedly robbing a male victim at gunpoint during a memorial service for a deceased friend. The incident took place at Aldine-Combee County Park in Lakeland on November 2nd.
The suspects, aged between 17 and 19, were apprehended by the Polk County Sheriff's Office. The victim, who remains unidentified, was attending the memorial with his girlfriend when he was accosted by four individuals wearing masks and gloves.
One of the suspects, 18-year-old Anthony Wilcox, Jr., a convicted felon, reportedly brandished a gun and stole a gold chain from the victim. Another suspect, 19-year-old Jakari Lowery, allegedly took the victim's cellphone, which was later recovered in the park.
The third suspect, 17-year-old Jadarrius Hayes, was arrested at Kathleen High School after admitting to being armed during the robbery. Warrants were issued for their arrests based on witness identification and reports of them being armed at the memorial.
Wilcox and Lowery were apprehended on November 13 after being spotted at an address linked to Lowery. Upon investigation, authorities found firearms at the residence and successfully arrested the suspects.
Sheriff Grady Judd expressed concern over the suspects' criminal histories and the violent nature of the robbery. Wilcox faces charges of armed robbery, felon in possession of a firearm, and resisting arrest, while Lowery was charged with resisting arrest and drug-related offenses.
Hayes, with a history of armed burglary, was charged with armed robbery and related offenses. Additionally, a fourth arrest was made at the scene involving a known gang member, Brent Johnson, who was found with firearms and drugs.
The authorities are determined to seek justice and hold the suspects accountable for their actions, emphasizing the seriousness of the crime and the potential consequences they face.
