Teens Booked for Drugs, Resisting Arrest in Civic Center Park

Berkeley police arrested two teens Monday after witnessing a drug transaction in Civic Center Park. 

At around 3:19 p.m., a Berkeley police officer on a bike saw the hand-to-hand sale and detained the 17-year-old male and 15-year old female involved, according to Berkeley police. However, while the police officer called for cover after asking the teens to sit down, the 17-year-old male took off running.

The bike officer followed in pursuit on foot across the park. The teen allegedly threw a gun under a parked car, according to a witness who alerted nearby officers. Police caught up to the teen and arrested him, and also recovered what appeared to be a "realistic looking" Desert Eagle replica gun, according to the Berkeley Police Department (BPD). Berkeley High School officials secured the school's permeter briefly during the pursuit. 

The 17-year-old male, who does not attend school, is being booked at BPD's juvenile booking facility for resisting arrest or obstructing an officer. The 15-year-old female, who attends Berkeley High School, is being booked for possession of less than 28.5 grams of marijuana and an outstanding warrant, according to police.

"No community members, detainees, arrested parties or officers were injured during the crimes," said BPD Public Information Officer Sgt. Mary C. Kusmiss in a statement.