BETHESDA, Md. — A 14-year-old and 15-year-old have been arrested and charged in connection with three armed robberies at the same Bethesda business over the course of three days, Montgomery County police announced Monday.
The suspects are accused of targeting the Geste Beer & Wine store in the 4800 block of Edgemoor Lane on July 8, 9, and 10. During each incident, the teens allegedly threatened employees with what appeared to be a firearm and stole cash from the register.
The first robbery occurred on Tuesday, July 8, at approximately 4:57 p.m. The suspects reportedly entered the store and made threats with an implied weapon before taking an undisclosed amount of money and fleeing.
A second robbery was reported the following night, Wednesday, July 9, at approximately 9:43 p.m., with the suspects using similar methods.
After reviewing surveillance footage from the store and a nearby metro station, detectives developed a description of the individuals involved. On Thursday, July 10, at around 2:35 p.m., officers patrolling the area spotted two juveniles matching the description near the store. The teens attempted to rob the business a third time but were arrested at the scene.
Investigators later confirmed the juveniles were responsible for all three incidents.
Both teens were charged with two counts of armed robbery and one count of robbery. The case has been referred to the Department of Juvenile Services, and both suspects are being held at a youth detention facility.