2 Armed Teens Arrested, Guns Recovered After Brandon Mall Disturbance: Sheriff

BRANDON, FL — A Thursday afternoon disturbance involving armed suspects at Brandon Mall ended with the arrest of two teenage boys after they fled on foot and discarded two firearms, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

While the sheriff's office has named the teens, it's Patch policy not to name minors accused of a crime unless they're being charged as an adult. It's unknown whether they're being charged as a juvenile or an adult.

When deputies responded to the mall just before 4 p.m., they found the suspects, who both ran through a nearby store and the surrounding area.

As deputies followed them, the teens discarded a backpack containing a loaded AR-15-style firearm and later threw away a handgun, the sheriff's office said.

Both teens were taken into custody and deputies recovered both firearms.

Investigators learned that the suspects had threatened a victim and implied they were armed, causing her to fear for her safety, the sheriff’s office said.

One 16-year-old boy is facing charges of child violation of probation, resisting an officer without violence, minor in possession of a firearm, disrupting a school function or lawful assembly, tampering with physical evidence, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

The second teen suspect, a 15-year-old boy, is facing charges of resisting an officer without violence, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, minor in possession of a firearm, disrupting a school function or lawful assembly, tampering with physical evidence, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

"Armed juveniles threatening the public will face serious consequences," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "These two individuals are now facing serious felony charges. We will not tolerate violent crime in our community, regardless of the offender's age. This arrest demonstrates that criminal behavior, especially involving weapons, will result in accountability."

See Also:

• 2 Women Killed In 3-Car Crash At Hillsborough County Intersection
• Rabid Cat That Terrorized Lakeland Neighborhood Linked To 5 Bites, Puppy Attack
• Former Gas Station Manager Stole $20K In FL Lottery Tickets: Reports
• 'Elf,' 'Couples Retreat' Actor Arrested In Tampa: Reports
• Tampa Man Who Intentionally Hit Girlfriend With Car Arrested: Hillsborough Sheriff