By ROBIN SHANNON

Staff Reporter

GARYVILLE – A 15-year-old LaPlace youth was taken into custody Wednesday for his involvement in the robbery of a local convenience store.

The incident occurred at the Fast Stop Market, located at 2972 LA 44 in Garyville, said Sheriff’s Office Spokesperson Maj. Mike Tregre.

According to police reports, the boy and his unidentified accomplice, entered the store through the roof of the building, causing an estimated $9,100 damage to the roof, ceiling tiles, lights, and video surveillance system.

Tregre said the owner of the business was called to the scene to take an inventory of stock. After inspecting the store, Tregre said the owner discovered 560 cigars, valued at $360, as well as an undetermined amount of cash, were stolen from the business.

Tregre said the suspects fled out the rear door of the store and proceeded on foot in the direction of Historic West Street. Officers were, however, able to retrieve evidence from the damaged surveillance system to positively identify the 15-year-old suspect.

The boy, whose name was not released, was taken into custody where he immediately confessed involvement in the crime. Tregre said the boy was later released to his parents, and was scheduled to report before Judge Sterlin Snowdy on Thursday.

Investigators are still attempting to identify the other suspect. Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. Walter Stevens with the St. John Sheriff’s Office at 985-652-9514.