A FRANKSTON North teenager is facing multiple armed robbery charges after two alleged knife attacks in Seaford this month.
The 17-year-old is alleged to have demanded a mobile phone from a passenger on a bus travelling from Frankston station to Carrum Downs, Monday 12 September. The offender allegedly reached for the phone but, when the victim, also 17, of Frankston, backed away, he punched him to the head.
Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Al Hanson, of Frankston CIU, said the offender then pulled out a knife and threatened to stab the victim before stealing his wallet.
In another incident, Friday 16 September, the teenager allegedly slashed a 21-year-old Langwarrin man across the face with a blade during a bungled armed robbery in Seaford, 3.15pm.
Detective Senior Constable Deanne Williams, of Frankston CIU, said the 21-year-old was walking along Railway Pd when he was allegedly confronted by the knife-wielding teen who demanded his mobile phone. When the demand was refused, the teenager allegedly slashed the man’s face before grabbing the phone and running off.
Despite bleeding badly, the victim chased the offender and managed to retrieve his phone and call police. He was later taken to hospital for treatment.
Police arrested the teenager at Frankston railway station with the help of a bystander who said he saw a man dumping clothing in a bin, possibly to alter his appearance.
The teenager was charged and remanded on two counts of armed robbery. He appeared at a children’s court on Monday 19 September and was then further remanded to appear at the same court at a later date.