Saint Paul police arrest four in robbery and rape near Raspberry Island
Swift action by patrol officers, investigators and community members credited for finding suspects quickly
Saint Paul police are investigating a robbery and sexual assault incident that occurred during the early morning hours of Tuesday, June 6.
Officers were dispatched to a parking lot near Raspberry Island at approximately 2 a.m. Tuesday, June 6, on a report of a robbery and sexual assault.
Upon arrival, officers found two juvenile male victims and two adult female victims who reported that they were in a parking lot near Raspberry Island when they were approached by four male suspects. One suspect brandished a gun and demanded that the victims get on the ground and hand over their valuables.
After complying with their demands, the two females were forced into a nearby vehicle that belonged to one of the victims and sexually assaulted by one or more suspects. The suspects then fled the crime scene on foot.
Responding officers immediately canvassed the area and spoke to anyone who may have seen or heard anything related to the crime. Thankfully, people cooperated with officers and provided crucial information that allowed the investigation to move forward quickly. In addition, one of the victims recognized one of the suspects. Officers and investigators used this information to identify suspects and shared it with surrounding police agencies.
A short time later, West St. Paul police notified the Saint Paul Police Department that they had three suspects in custody for an unrelated robbery who matched the descriptions of those involved in the Raspberry Island incident.
Investigators then identified a fourth person, who was taken into custody around noon today. Those arrested include three adult males and a juvenile male.
The Saint Paul Police Department believes that all suspects are in custody, however the investigation into the case continues.
No further information is available at this time.
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