By ROBIN SHANNON

L’Observateur

LAPLACE – A 28-year-old LaPlace man told St. John the Baptist Parish authorities he was robbed at gunpoint after a gang of men approached him behind the Riverlands Shopping Center Friday.

The victim told deputies he was riding his bike home from work in the 100 block of Carrollwood Drive about 11:17 p.m. when he was approached by a group of 10 men at the back of Riverlands Shopping Center, said Capt. Dane Clement, Sheriff’s Office spokesman.

“One of the alleged perpetrators pulled a black semi automatic handgun and demanded that the victim empty his pockets,” Clement said. “The victim surrendered his cell phone, an iPod, and a sum of cash. The perpetrators then ran off in an unknown direction.” 

Clement said the victim was uninjured during the incident. Deputies canvassed the scene, but were unsuccessful in finding any of the suspects. He said the suspects are believed to be teenagers.

Any one with information regarding the robbery should call St. John Detectives at 985-359-8769 or Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111.