Three teenagers were taken into custody after allegedly robbing a pedestrian and threatening to shoot him if he did not hand over his phone, Santa Monica police have said.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, around 1:20pm near 500 Broadway, where officers with the Downtown Services Unit responded to a report of a robbery involving several juveniles. The victims told police they were approached by a group of teens who demanded money and made threatening statements indicating they might be armed.
One of the suspects claimed to have a weapon inside a backpack. Fearing for their safety, the victims complied, surrendering cash and a cellphone.
Officers located the group a short time later in the 500 block of Olympic Blvd. One of the teens was found in possession of the victim’s phone. Although no handgun was recovered, police said one suspect was carrying a gold-colored replica firearm-style lighter capable of causing confusion in tense situations. According to police, the victims stated they were under the impression a weapon was present and concerned for their personal safety.
Three of the four suspects, all between the ages of 15 and 16, were arrested. Their names were not released due to their age. The fourth individual was not taken into custody and it was not immediately clear what charges the juveniles might face.
The suspects are not residents of Santa Monica.
An investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Watch Commander, available 24/7 at (310) 458-8427.
scott.snowden@smdp.com