BRIEFLY IN PUBLIC SAFETY

Teen arrested in drug-selling sting

A group of Laguna Beach youths tried to turn the tables in an undercover drug buy, and one may now face drug-selling and petty-theft charges.

A 17-year-old boy was arrested — and five other juveniles detained — at about 7:45 p.m. on April 2 after allegedly promising to sell $50 worth of marijuana to an undercover police officer and then reneging on the deal, Laguna Beach Det. Sgt. Darin Lenyi said.

The undercover officer negotiated with the boys, who initially wanted $150 for the drugs, Lenyi said. The officer talked them down to a $50 price, gave the youths the cash, and then agreed to meet at another location to obtain the marijuana.

When the youths failed to stop their vehicle and complete the transaction, officers pulled them over in the 500 block of Blumont Street near Laguna Beach High School, Lenyi said.

One teen was arrested on a felony charge of offering to sell marijuana and conspiracy to commit petty theft by allegedly absconding with the drug money, Lenyi said. He was booked and released to his parents.

The other five — 16 and 17 years old — were detained on suspicion of conspiracy to commit petty theft and released to their parents.

Drug paraphernalia was found in the car, Lenyi said.

The names of the youths were not released because of their status as minors.

Composite released in attempted robbery

Laguna Beach police have released a composite sketch of a knife-wielding suspect in an alleged attempted robbery.

The alleged incident took place about 8:30 p.m. on Jan. 29 in the 1400 block of No. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach Det. Sgt. Darin Lenyi said.

A local resident was jogging in the area when he was confronted by a man allegedly brandishing a knife with a four-inch blade, similar to a paring knife. The suspect allegedly demanded the victim give him his Ipod. The victim refused and continued running southbound. He later reported the incident to the police; however, there was a substantial time lapse between the time of the incident and the report.

The suspect is described as white, 16-17 years of age, 5-feet 7-inches tall, 150 pounds, with blond or light brown hair, thin build, wearing a dark blue hooded sweatshirt, a grey beanie and an unknown color sweatpants. The suspect spoke with a Spanish dialect or slang.

Just prior to the incident, the suspect had exited a two-tone, dark blue/light blue minivan, possibly an older GMC in poor condition. The driver of the vehicle was described as having long brown hair and a beard.

Anyone with information related to this case should contact Det. Andrew Ross at (949) 497-0369.