Deputies in Hillsborough County arrested a group of young adults for ambushing a handyman they reportedly found on Craigslist. After the attack, deputies say they robbed the man, stole his car and attempted to run from authorities.

Handyman assaulted and robbed after responded to Craigslist ad



Young adults between 15-20 yrs old arrested in attack

Charges included robbery, grand theft motor vehicle and more

The five individuals arrested range from 15 – 20 years old. The violent encounter reportedly happened on Sept. 11 around 5 p.m.

The victim said when he arrived at a home in Riverview he had expected to give an estimate for repair work. He was quickly greeted by three individuals – two females, one male – who ‘forcibly removed’ his wallet, car keys and cell phone.

They reportedly took off in his stolen Chevrolet Cruze, picking up a few friends along the way.

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While en route to the scene, deputies say they saw the stolen vehicle in the area of Big Bend Road and Interstate 75 and tried to make a traffic stop.

The suspects took off, deputies say, refusing to stop until their vehicle ran over a raised concrete storm drain. Three of the under-aged suspects attempted to run, but with aviation already hovering above, no one got far.

The list of charges for the group was substantial, including robbery of $300 or more, grand theft motor vehicle, possession of marijuana and resisting arrest.



Bay News 9 will avoid reporting the names of juveniles, unless they have been charged with a crime as an adult. Depending on the severity of the crime, exceptions can be made. The final decision to air the name of a juvenile will be made by the General Manager and the Senior Director of News.