Multiple arrests have been made in connection with an armed robbery involving juveniles and a linked investigation that led to the discovery of firearms and narcotics by the Norwood Police Department, according to a social media post from the Norwood Police Department. The ordeal began with a 911 call on Monday, reporting an armed robbery at 21 Woodbine Road, where two masked individuals accosted two juveniles, stealing an electric bicycle, jacket, and shoes while threatening to shoot if the victims attempted to run. Both victims eventually managed to escape and alerted authorities.
In the immediate follow-up, officers canvassed the area and identified one juvenile suspect, leading them to 382-384 Walpole St., a residence known for past firearms offenses; this culminated in the surrounding of the residence and shutdown of Walpole Street as a precaution. According to the police, Alexia Porter, a resident of the addressed premises, was taken into custody on an existing warrant—who upon arrest informed officers that only her son was in the house, denying the presence of other individuals—Metro SWAT and the NORPAC task force were summoned to set a perimeter and call out the occupants over a loudspeaker, resulting in seven additional detentions, including two juvenile suspects.
During the execution of a search warrant, officers found three handguns concealed within a toilet tank at the primary residence and discovered an interior access to the secondary residence at 384 Walpole St., where evidence of narcotics distribution was apparent. According to the Norwood Police Department, a subsequent protective sweep and warrant led to the recovery of 32 grams of crack cocaine; "some narcotics had been disposed of before police entry," the officers noted.
Charges have been filed against Alexia Porter, including but not limited to possession of a large-capacity firearm and improper storage of a firearm near a minor, while two juveniles face charges related to the armed robbery and threats; in the fallout of the incident, juveniles detained but not charged were released to parental custody, the Norwood Police Department has assured that victims and their families received protective measures following the events and the stolen items were retrieved. Chief Christopher Padden expressed gratitude to the participating officers, highlighting their "coordinated efforts" as "instrumental in quickly identifying and arresting the suspects involved in this violent crime," strong emphasis was placed on the swift and professional response which according to Chief Padden ensured community safety; for further information or to assist the ongoing investigation, the public is encouraged to contact Detective Marchant at the Norwood Police Department.
