On Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, eight teenagers from Philadelphia were arrested in Polk County, Florida, after attempting to steal more than $2,000 worth of merchandise from a Dick’s Sporting Goods at Posner Plaza in Davenport. The teenagers, all between 14 and 15 years old, were members of Philly’s United Thoroughbreds and were in Florida to play a youth football championship game. Law enforcement said the teens entered the store at approximately 10:55 a.m. and began searching for items.
The Incident
The police report indicates that one of the teens made a purchase at the register while the others moved around the store. After the purchase, the group met inside the store and started placing merchandise into a bag. Three of the teens tried to leave the store with the stolen items. Police were able to stop them before they exited, discovering more than $2,000 worth of merchandise and a backpack inside the bag. The remaining five teenagers were detained inside the store.
The Arrest
All eight teens were taken to a juvenile detention center in Florida. According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the suspects face two felony charges: retail theft over $750 and conspiracy to commit retail theft. The total value of the goods the teens attempted to steal was $2,296.07, according to law enforcement. The arrests were made the same day the incident occurred, with officers responding promptly after the theft was discovered.
Legal Consequences
The charges carried by the teenagers are serious. Retail theft over $750 is a felony that can result in significant penalties for juveniles. Conspiracy to commit retail theft is also a felony and adds to the severity of the case. The juveniles will be processed through the Florida legal system, where they may face court proceedings and potential sentencing.
Key Takeaways
- Eight 14‑ to 15‑year‑old teens from Philadelphia were arrested in Florida for attempting to steal $2,296.07 worth of merchandise.
- The theft took place at a Dick’s Sporting Goods at Posner Plaza in Davenport on Dec. 6, 2025, and involved a bag of stolen items and a backpack.
- All suspects face felony charges of retail theft over $750 and conspiracy to commit retail theft and have been taken to a juvenile detention center.
The incident highlights the importance of vigilance in retail environments and the legal repercussions for juvenile offenders involved in theft.
