17-Year-Old Arrested in Connection With Driver Robberies

JAMAICA PLAIN, MA - A 17-year-old was arrested Wednesday and charged in a string of robberies of Uber and taxi cab drivers in the Boston area.

Police say since March 22, at least nine drivers around the city, including two in Jamaica Plain, have fallen victim to a group that enters their cars and demands money.

Three incidents were originally reported on March 22, but while those were investigated the robbers struck at least six more times, according to police.

Each crime was reported long after the suspects had fled, but officers said through statements and evidence they were able to identify one of the alleged perpetrators.

While in custody the suspect reportedly became combative, spitting on and kneeing officers. The teen was charged with two counts of assault and battery on a police officer, in addition to unarmed robbery.

"I would like to recognize and commend the great work of my detectives and officers who assisted in identifying and arresting this violent individual," Commissioner William Evans said in a statement. "Time can be of the essence when investigating crimes. I am grateful that no victim was seriously injured by this individual and he was taken into custody before he could strike again."