2 Teens Arrested In String Of Bicycle Thefts: Sarasota Police

SARASOTA, FL — Two 15-year-old boys were arrested in connection with a string of bicycle thefts reported in the city, according to a Sarasota Police Department news release.

Detectives conducted an undercover operation in the 2700 block of Cocoanut Avenue on Tuesday to recover a stolen electric bike. While trying to take the teens into custody, one ran away.

Officers saw the suspect throw a gun into Whitaker Bayou as he ran, police said. He was quickly taken into custody.

The other teen was also arrested and the stolen e-bike was recovered.

Members of the department’s Underwater Search and Recovery team responded to the scene and found the gun in the water, police said.

One of the suspects was charged with dealing in stolen property, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of a firearm by an adjudicated juvenile and obstruction.

The second suspect is charged with dealing in stolen property - principle.

Though police named the teens, it’s Patch policy not to name juveniles if they’re charged as a minor. It’s not known whether the suspects are being charged as minors or adults.