Police Said Robbers Led Them on Sandy Chase

Two gang members suspected of attempted robbery led police officers on a chase along the waterline last Saturday night.

The chase began after police received a 911 call about two teenagers who had demanded a purse and money from people walking in the 1700 block of Appian Way, according to the Santa Monica Police Department.

"The victims tried to ignore the suspects who then made a statement about having a gun," said Sgt. Richard Lewis. "As the victims approached their [destination], the suspects began throwing rocks at them, before running away."

Officers found the suspects, later identified as a 17-year-old and Richardo Gonzalez Valdez, 18, and chased them on the sand. While arresting the teenager and Valdez, officers said they recovered a knife.

The teen was booked into juvenile hall on suspicion of attempted robbery, conspiracy to commit a crime, robbery, and participating in a criminal street gang. Valdez was booked into jail on suspicion of the same charges.