Orlando police arrested a 17-year-old boy earlier this month after he allegedly used a gun to rob a victim attempting to sell cellphones.
On Wednesday, April 1, Orlando Police Department officers responded to the 900 block of S Kirkman Avenue in reference to an armed robbery incident. When officers arrived, they met a victim who advised that they had arranged to sell cellphones to the teen suspect, according to OPD.
The victim reportedly told police that during the exchange, the suspect pulled out a firearm before taking the cellphones from the victim. In addition, the victim alleged that the suspect stole approximately $300 in cash.
Officers located the suspect and detained him in handcuffs. During a search of his residence, Orlando police reportedly recovered the stolen cellphones, along with the firearm that was allegedly used during the incident.
In a media release, OPD said that investigators soon discovered that the recovered firearm had been reported stolen in 2023.
The suspect was arrested and charged with the following: armed robbery, third-degree grand theft (over $750 but less than $5,000), and possession of a firearm by a minor.
“The Orlando Police Department reminds residents to use caution when conducting online purchases or exchanges,” said OPD. “Whenever possible, meet in safe, public locations or utilize designated e-commerce exchange zones for added safety.”