2 Alleged Drug Dealers Arrested For Robbery, Assault In Novato

NOVATO, CA – Novato police arrested two people, including one teen, on suspicion of robbing and assaulting two marijuana buyers with a knife and screwdriver during a drug deal Sunday at Pioneer Park. According to the Novato Police Department, police responded around 2:25 p.m. to a report about a fight in the parking lot of the park located at 1007 Simmons Lane.

Police said the drug dealers took cash and personal possessions from the two buyers and fled. One of the buyers was slashed in the arm with a knife but declined medical treatment. Officers searched the area, but were unable to locate the suspects.

Several hours later, police responded to a disturbance at Novato Community Hospital, where they found the 17- and 18-year-old robbery suspects.

The younger suspect was booked into Marin County Juvenile Hall and the adult suspect will be booked into Marin County Jail after he is treated for a possible skull fracture and is released from the hospital, police said. Both suspects face possible charges of robbery, assault with a deadly weapon and conspiracy, police said.

"Although marijuana for medicinal and recreational purposes is now legal in California, law enforcement continues to see a significant 'underground' marketplace for marijuana and violence associated with it," police said in a press release.

Officers will be patrolling the area around the park more often, according to police.

"If you are enjoying the park and observe activities out of character for the area you are encouraged to call the Novato Police Department," officials said.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the Novato Police Department at 415-897-4361.

Bay City News Service contributed to this report.

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