Arrests made in bicycle holdups

Houma Police arrested Joseph Amacker, 17, and a 15-year-old, both of Cherbourg Street, in connection with two recent armed robberies on Houma’s eastside, Police Chief Dana Coleman said.

Coleman said the pair, armed with handguns, were on bicycles when they approached their victims and demanded cell phones and other items.

The first victim told police he recognized Amacker but couldn’t remember his name. The second victim tried to follow the suspects in his vehicle, but they began shooting at him, Coleman said. The third victim, a woman, said the two initially asked for change. They stole her purse and rode away, the police chief said.

Investigators linked Amacker and the other teen to the incident. A search warrant executed at a Cherbourg Street residence uncovered stolen items, he said.

Amacker was charged with three counts of armed robbery, possession with intent to distribute CDS II (crack cocaine) and possession of CDS I (marijuana). The 15-year-old was charged with possession of stolen property over $500 and transported to the juvenile detention center.

The case remains under investigation, and Coleman said others are suspected of being part of the crimes.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers Bayou Region at 1-800-743-7433 or text “GIVEATIP” plus a message to 274637. •