GILBERT, Arizona – The Gilbert Police Department announced the arrest of three individuals in connection with incidents of group teen violence. Jacob Pennington, 20, William Owen Hines, 18, and an unnamed 17-year-old juvenile were taken into custody on Wednesday in connection with several alleged assaults.
One of the incidents involved an alleged assault near Williams Field Road and South Market Street on Dec. 2, 2022. Pennington, Hines, and the 17-year-old are facing charges of aggravated assault in that case.
Additionally, the 17-year-old was arrested in connection with an assault reported in a parking garage near West Vaughn Avenue on Dec. 3, 2022. The teen is facing charges of aggravated assault and kidnapping.
Furthermore, an alleged assault that took place outside of a residence near Higley and Riggs roads on Nov. 22, 2022, was reported to the Gilbert Police Department on Jan. 4. Hines and the 17-year-old juvenile are facing charges of aggravated assault in connection with this incident.
Gilbert Police Chief Michael Soelberg has addressed the media in two previous news conferences about the more than a dozen arrests related to teen violence in the East Valley.
This recent development adds to the ongoing concern about group teen violence in the area, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and intervention in addressing and preventing such incidents.
The individuals arrested will likely face legal proceedings as the police department continues to conduct thorough investigations into these disturbing occurrences. Residents and authorities alike are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police. This underscores the importance of community involvement in maintaining the safety and well-being of young people in the area.
As more information becomes available, the community awaits updates on the progress of the investigations and the measures being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.