Warren, Ohio – A 19-year-old Warren woman has formally admitted her involvement in an armed robbery at a local vape store, accepting responsibility for helping transport the suspect before and after the crime. The incident, which occurred in July 2025, involved a juvenile armed with a gun and resulted in stolen merchandise from a business on Elm Road NE.
The guilty plea was entered this week in Judge Ronald Rice’s courtroom, marking a key development in a case that has drawn attention to youth-involved crime and accomplice liability.
Incident Overview
According to court officials, Alivia Spitzer, 19, pleaded guilty to one count of robbery in connection with the holdup at Vapor Kings, a vape and smoke shop located on Elm Road NE in Warren. Prosecutors allege that while Spitzer did not enter the store or brandish a weapon, she played a critical role by assisting with transportation related to the crime.
Police say the robbery was carried out by a juvenile suspect, while Spitzer and another adult allegedly supported the act from outside.
Timeline of Events
The robbery took place in July 2025, during regular business hours. Investigators say the suspect arrived at the store using a motorized scooter, entered the business, and confronted an employee at the counter.
After the robbery, the suspect fled the scene and was later linked to individuals who had driven him to and from the location. The investigation eventually led to multiple arrests and court proceedings spanning several months.
Details From Police and Court Officials
A report from the Warren Police Department states that the suspect entered the store wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and a black ski mask, concealing his identity. The individual then pointed a firearm at the cashier and demanded merchandise.
“The suspect approached the counter, displayed a handgun, and demanded items from the employee before fleeing the scene,” police noted in their report.
Investigators later identified Spitzer and co-defendant Kelly Sexton as the individuals who drove the juvenile suspect to the store and assisted in his escape following the robbery.
Court staff confirmed Spitzer’s guilty plea on Thursday, as first reported by 21 News, citing information from the clerk’s office and police records.
Key Facts From the Case
- Defendant: Alivia Spitzer, 19
- Charge: One count of robbery
- Location: Vapor Kings, Elm Road NE, Warren
- Date of Incident: July 2025
- Weapon Used: Handgun
- Stolen Items: Two jars of hemp flower and one carton of cigars
- Primary Suspect: Juvenile male
- Co-defendant: Kelly Sexton
Role of the Co-Defendant
While Spitzer has entered a guilty plea, the case against Kelly Sexton remains ongoing. Court records indicate that Sexton is scheduled to return to court for a pretrial hearing on January 27.
Prosecutors allege that Sexton also played a role in transporting the juvenile suspect, though details of her defense and potential plea have not yet been made public.
Additional Context: Accomplice Liability in Robbery Cases
Under Ohio law, individuals who aid or abet a robbery can face the same level of criminal responsibility as the person who physically commits the crime. This includes providing transportation, acting as a lookout, or helping with escape plans.
Legal experts note that cases involving juvenile offenders often expand to include adult accomplices, particularly when adults are believed to have facilitated access to transportation or resources.
Sentencing and What Happens Next
At this time, no sentencing date has been set for Spitzer. The court is expected to schedule a sentencing hearing after reviewing a pre-sentence investigation report, which typically examines criminal history, level of involvement, and mitigating factors.
The juvenile suspect’s case is being handled separately within the juvenile justice system, where proceedings are generally not open to the public.
Conclusion
Spitzer’s guilty plea brings partial closure to a robbery that disrupted a local business and highlighted the serious consequences of assisting violent crimes. As the case against the remaining defendant continues, authorities say the investigation underscores the risks and legal responsibilities faced by anyone who helps facilitate armed robberies.
If you live or work in the area and have been affected by similar incidents, staying informed and alert can help improve community safety. Share your experiences in the comments below.
