NEWS RELEASE
City of Takoma Park Police Department
* 7500 Maple Avenue * Takoma Park, Md 20912
For more information contact:
Public Information Officer (PIO)
Catherine Plevy, 301/891.7142 or 240/338.2901
July 2, 2009 (3:15 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE
UPDATE: Through investigation, one of the juveniles responsible for the below referenced armed robbery, who is currently being held at the Department of Juvenile Services Detention Center, has also been linked and charged with the armed robbery of Joo Lee Cleaners on June 9, 2009, as well as another robbery in Montgomery County.
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announced the arrests of two juveniles, both from Washington, D.C., for the armed robbery of the Banner Cleaners on June 13, 2009. Both juveniles were charged with various offenses, including armed robbery, robbery, first degree assault, second degree assault, theft under $500, conspiracy to commit armed robbery, and conspiracy to commit first degree assault.
On June 13, 2009, at approximately 9:00 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue (Banner Cleaners) for reports of a robbery that had just occurred. Detectives from the Tactical Enforcement Unit (TEU) and Criminal Investigations Division (CID) were on the scene and assisted the patrol units with the investigation. Through investigative efforts, and working with outside agencies, the detectives were able to ascertain the location of the suspects. Detectives met with members of the Metropolitan Police Department, who provided a great deal of assistance with marked patrol units, plainclothes officers and their air unit. The investigation led detectives to the 3700 block of 10th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C., which is a recreation park. Surveillance was established and the suspects as described by the victim were observed in the park. Both suspects were apprehended. They were in possession of property that belonged to the victim and her business.
Both suspects were transported to the D.C. Youth Division and arrest warrants were obtained charging both with the above referenced charges.
Chief Ricucci is proud of both his TEU and CID units, and the patrol officers, for their outstanding follow through and determination to bring closure to this crime for this business owner. The patrol units who were first on the scene were able to ascertain valuable information and provide great assistance to the detectives. This entire investigation was a joint effort between the police department, the victim’s great assistance with the description of the suspects, as well as the assistance from the Metropolitan Police Department. The working relationship between multi-jurisdictional police departments continues to be an invaluable tool.