SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the kidnapping and robbery of a rival gang member in Scranton.
Scranton police report that 20-year-old Cesar Rodrigues Hernandez and a 17-year-old juvenile accomplice were taken into custody on Friday. The suspects are associated with the Popote street gang, and authorities say they forcibly abducted a rival gang member on Saturday, February 22.
According to police, the suspects, along with other armed individuals, kidnapped the juvenile victim from a car wash on Ash Street and transported him to the Skyview Housing complex. Once there, the assailants reportedly stole the victim’s sweatshirt and sneakers, then ordered him to run or risk being shot.
Police credited the successful investigation to the cooperation of local businesses, the Scranton School District, and family members, who provided critical information. Authorities emphasized the importance of community partnerships in keeping the streets and schools of Scranton safer.
The investigation remains active, and anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Scranton Police Department.