Second District Officers J. Castelin and J. Slade arrested Dakota Banks (DOB: 3/23/1999) and two juveniles after they were developed as perpetrators in an armed robbery that occurred early this morning.

The victim told police at around 1:35 a.m. he was riding his bike at the intersection of Broadway and Hampson Streets. At which time, three to four black males blocked the street and approached him with a firearm.  The subjects then began shouting unknown statements at the victim while pointing the gun at him. The victim gave the suspects his bicycle and started running toward St. Charles Avenue where he was helped by a good Samaritan. They then contacted a Tulane University Police officer.

While on patrol, a Tulane University Police Officer observed the subjects on Palmetto Street.  After a brief chase, Second District officers including T. Clark, R. Valley, Sgt. C. Neely, C. Lacey  and Det. A. Wiedman were able to help apprehend all three suspects at the Palmetto Apartments.

All suspects were arrested and charged with armed robbery with a firearm.  However, Second District officers are still searching for a fourth suspect involved in this incident. 

Armed Robbery

In Louisiana, an armed robbery conviction requires the offender to be imprisoned at hard labor for 10 – 99 years, without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. When a firearm is used in the commission of the crime, the offender will be imprisoned for an additional 5 years that will be served consecutively to the original sentence.

If you have any other information on this incident or on the suspects, please contact any Second District detective at 504-658-6020. Citizens with information that can help solve a crime are asked to call Crimestoppers at  504-822-1111 or toll-free 1-877-903-STOP.