Police: Suspect in robberies at 3 CCSD schools arrested, 'kids are safe'

CCSD and Metro Police departments said parents have little to worry about as officials investigate a string of robberies which occurred near several high schools, a spokesperson said Monday. 

Three separate robberies and a fourth attempted robbery occurred near Spring Valley, Durango and Valley High Schools on Tuesday, officials said. No injuries were reported, but several students were targeted during the incidents. Descriptions of the suspect and vehicle used indicated to police the incidents were related. 

Police arrested a minor in relation to the robberies Wednesday afternoon after locating a vehicle which matched the description of the suspect’s, according to a press release. Officials did not specify whether the juvenile was charged with any offenses. 

Officials stressed the robberies were “crimes of opportunity” during a press conference Monday and did not represent a systemic or premeditated threat against students in the area. 

“The kids are safe — there’s nothing to worry about,” Metro Police Deputy Chief Jose Hernandez said. 

CCSD Police partners with agencies across the district in the run-up to the start of the school year to develop a “robust” back-to-school enforcement plan and were able to respond to the robberies because of officer placement.

Officials also confirmed there would be increased police presence at valley schools in the coming days as a precaution. 

“We just want parents to know that these are isolated,” CCSD Police Lt. Bryan Zink said.  

The robberies are still under investigation, officials said.