After a month-long investigation, Fayette County authorities have arrested five teenagers, for an alleged armed robbery at an area park.

The incident happened June 19th at Echo Valley Park, just east of West Union. Five young men reportedly held a car with passengers at gunpoint, then demanded money.

As part of the investigation, authorities executed two search warrants in West Union. According to sheriff's officials, officers seized several BB guns that looked like actual firearms.

As a result, five young residents were taken into custody on charges of first-degree armed robbery.

They identified four of the individuals as (photos below):

  • Michael Root, 19, of Castalia;
  • Drake Thompson, 18, of West Union;
  • Jerome Sargent, 17, of Fayette;
  • Tayton Messler, 16, of Hawkeye;

A 15-year-old was referred to Juvenile Court Services.

According to Fayette County sheriff's officials, anyone 16 years old or older, charged with a forcible felony, can be charged as an adult. A conviction conviction carries a prison term of up to 25 years.

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Echo Valley Park Robbery Suspects

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