Four youths are facing charges after a series of incidents on Sunday evening that began at Lampman Lane Park and continued to a nearby plaza on Leacock Drive in Barrie's north end.
Police say a group of teens approached some youths playing at the park, where one male allegedly brandished a knife and threatened two boys, ages 14 and 15, in separate incidents. No injuries were reported.
The group then moved to the plaza, where police say items were stolen from two businesses.
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"When a business owner confronted the group, the same male from the park produced a knife again and made threats, prompting the owner to retreat into the store," police said in a news release.
The group fled the area, and according to police, one suspect also allegedly made a threat toward a witness while pointing to the knife in his pocket.
Officers located two suspects nearby, while two others were found after fleeing into a wooded area.
A 16-year-old boy from Barrie was charged with the following:
- Robbery with violence
- Assault with weapon (x3)
- Theft under $5,000
- Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
- Possession of a weapon contrary to a court order
- Failure to comply with sentence
A second 16-year-old boy from Barrie was charged with the following:
- Theft under $5,000
- Mischief under $5,000
- Failure to comply with undertaking
As well, a 13-year-old boy was charged with uttering threats to cause bodily harm, and a 14-year-old boy was charged with theft under $5,000.
The identities of those involved are protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
