Parents of unruly teens accused of flash mob robberies against Los Angeles-area convenience stores have turned them into police, according to the LAPD. At least three parents have taken this step, with surveillance footage showing groups of young men biking to stores, forcing their way in, and causing havoc once inside. The incidents occurred over the summer, with 13 of the 14 reported incidents happening on Friday evenings. Witnesses reported being physically pushed by the suspects during the robberies. The LAPD stated that the group consists of about 20 to 40 juveniles and are targeting 7-Eleven locations in several divisions.
Local residents have commended the parents for taking action, stating that it is important to stop such behavior at a young age before it escalates into more serious crimes. Licensed clinical psychologist Dr. David Swanson noted that these parents may fear that the behavior exhibited by their children could lead to more severe consequences, including potential prison time. The LAPD has not responded to requests for comments but previously stated that the suspects have shown a complete disregard for safety and have left witnesses in fear for their well-being due to their aggressive and callous criminal behavior.
Assistant Chief Blake Chow mentioned during a LAPD commission meeting that parents turned in their children on multiple occasions in late September, resulting in the booking of several juveniles for robbery. One parent turned their child in on September 29th, leading to another arrest. The teen suspects involved in the flash mob robberies have been using bicycles as a means of transport to commit these crimes, with the incidents happening in various divisions around the Los Angeles area. The pattern of offenses indicates a planned and coordinated effort by the group to enter stores, steal merchandise, damage property, and flee without paying.
The LAPD has raised concerns about the safety of witnesses who were present during these incidents, noting that several individuals have expressed fear for their well-being after being physically pushed by the suspects during the robberies. The department reported that the suspects did not hesitate to use force and aggression during the criminal takeovers of the stores. While there were no reports of physical injuries, the brazen and reckless behavior displayed by the teens has left a lasting impact on those who witnessed the events. The LAPD has said that individuals pretending to be government officials might try to steal cash, warning residents to remain vigilant and cautious against fraudsters.
It is clear from the actions of the parents who turned in their children that they recognize the seriousness of the situation and are taking proactive steps to address the behavior exhibited by their teens. By handing their children over to law enforcement, these parents are showing that they understand the potential consequences of criminal activities escalating and are seeking to prevent further harm. The community has expressed support for the parents’ decisions, as stopping such behavior early on can prevent the teens from engaging in more severe crimes in the future. Overall, the cooperation between parents and law enforcement in addressing these flash mob robberies is crucial in maintaining safety and security in the affected areas.
