Palm Bay Bingo Robbers Apprehended
By Space Coast Daily // May 23, 2012
In custody
BREVARD COUNTY • PALM BAY, FLORIDA – Three suspects wanted in connection with an armed robbery that occurred at a local bingo hall are now in custody facing felony charges.
Andrew Guzman, 17, Leonard Valentine 17, and Austin Hill, 17, all face charges of armed robbery with a firearm and grand theft, according to Palm Bay Police.
Police said that at about 9:15 p.m. May 6 the three individuals entered the Country Bingo, 4450 Dixie Highway, dressed as ninjas with intent to steal cash.
Witnesses said the men entered through the north side door and were “flashing guns” and yelling, “This is not a joke, get down this is a robbery.”
Many of the patrons and employees were seen on surveillance video as they immediately dropped to the floor to avoid confrontation.
The suspects then went into the office and took a black briefcase containing cash and fled.
No injuries were reported during the incident.
After surveillance video of the crime was made public, numerous people came forward with information.
Based on the information and other investigative leads, detectives from Palm Bay’s Major Case Unit were able to identify some of the suspects who were subsequently brought in for questioning.
The suspects confessed to the crime, but the investigation is ongoing and additional arrests are likely, said Palm Bay Police spokesman Yvonne Martinez.
