Tice, Florida – Three people, including a 12-year-old boy, were taken into custody in Lee County after deputies say they carried out a coordinated robbery targeting a man riding an electric dirt bike late Wednesday night. Authorities allege the incident involved deception, physical assault, and the theft of both cash and the victim’s bike.
Incident Overview
According to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the robbery occurred near Coopers Court and Figuera Avenue, just off Palm Beach Boulevard in Tice. Investigators say the victim was riding his black electric dirt bike when he was approached by a juvenile who asked for a ride home.
What initially appeared to be a harmless request quickly escalated into a planned ambush involving two adult suspects hiding nearby.
Timeline of Events
Deputies reported that the victim agreed to give 12-year-old Pedro Simon Luis a ride. As they traveled through the neighborhood, Luis allegedly directed the victim toward a specific corner where the ambush took place.
At that location, two men emerged from nearby woods and attacked the victim, forcing him off the bike. The confrontation lasted only moments but resulted in injuries and theft before the suspects fled.
Details From Law Enforcement
The Sheriff’s Office identified the adult suspects as Brallan Lopez, age 20, and Carlos Horta, age 18. According to the arrest report, both men allegedly pushed the victim to the ground and punched him.
Investigators say Lopez placed the victim in a chokehold while one of the suspects reached into the victim’s pockets and stole cash. After the assault, Lopez and Horta allegedly ran from the scene on foot, while Luis rode away on the stolen electric dirt bike.
“This incident appears to have been a coordinated effort involving a juvenile and two adults to isolate and rob the victim,” deputies noted in the report.
Injuries and Medical Condition
The victim suffered minor injuries, including a cut lip and swelling around one eye. Authorities did not indicate that the victim required hospitalization, and his injuries were described as non-life-threatening.
No weapons were reported to have been used during the robbery, though deputies emphasized that physical force and restraint were involved.
Arrests and Charges
All three suspects were located later the same night and taken into custody. Pedro Simon Luis, due to his age, was transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center. Lopez and Horta were booked into the Lee County Jail.
While specific charges were not detailed in the initial release, cases involving robbery with force, especially when a juvenile is involved, can carry serious legal consequences under Florida law.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Victim: Adult male riding an electric dirt bike
- Juvenile suspect: Pedro Simon Luis, age 12
- Adult suspects: Brallan Lopez, 20; Carlos Horta, 18
- Location: Coopers Court and Figuera Avenue, Tice, Florida
- Injuries: Cut lip, swollen eye
- Property stolen: Electric dirt bike and cash
Additional Context: Youth Involvement in Violent Crime
Law enforcement officials across Florida have expressed growing concern about juveniles being used in or recruited into violent crimes. In some cases, younger suspects are used to lower suspicion or gain a victim’s trust, as investigators allege happened in this incident.
Authorities stress that involving minors in criminal activity not only places victims at risk but can have long-term consequences for the juveniles themselves, including entry into the justice system at an early age.
Safety and Awareness Tips
Officials encourage residents to remain cautious when approached by strangers, even in residential areas. Public safety recommendations include:
- Avoid giving rides to unknown individuals
- Stay in well-lit, populated areas when traveling at night
- Report suspicious behavior immediately to local law enforcement
- Consider using tracking devices on high-value items like e-bikes
Conclusion
Deputies say the arrests bring closure to a violent incident that left one man injured and shaken. The case highlights how quickly everyday encounters can turn dangerous and underscores the importance of situational awareness, particularly during nighttime hours.
Call to Action
If you have witnessed similar incidents or have concerns about safety in your neighborhood, law enforcement encourages reporting suspicious activity promptly. Share your experiences in the comments below.
