Marina
In a jaw-dropping turn of events, the Emporia Police Department (EPD) apprehended two 14-year-old males in connection with an attempted aggravated robbery on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at approximately 1:30 a.m. in the 1100 block of E 12th Avenue.
The investigation intensified when Lyon County Crime Stoppers provided a crucial tip, leading to the recovery of a stolen gun and a knife believed to have been used in the attempted crime. Under EPD policy, the identities of the juveniles remain confidential.
The case underscores both the community’s vigilance and the department’s swift response.
Breaking Down the Facts
Incident Overview
- Date & Time of Attempted Crime: Sunday, August 17, 2025, ~1:30 a.m.
- Location: 1100 block of E 12th Avenue, Emporia, KS
- Incident Type: Attempted aggravated robbery
- Arrest Date: Friday, August 22 or 25, 2025 (depending on the source)
- Suspects: Two 14-year-old males (identities withheld)
- Weapons Recovered:
- Stolen gun
- Knife
- Key Assistance: Lyon County Crime Stoppers tip
Law Enforcement & Policy Highlights
- Announcing Authority: Captain Lisa Hayes, Investigations Captain, EPD
- Policy on Juvenile Identities: Per EPD guidelines, the names of individuals under 18 involved in criminal matters are not released to the public
- Presumption of Innocence: Standard legal principle applies: all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty
- Public Response: EPD expressed gratitude to residents and Crime Stoppers for aiding in the resolution
Detailed Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | Sunday, August 17, 2025, ~1:30 a.m. |
| Location | 1100 block of E 12th Avenue, Emporia, KS |
| Crime Type | Attempted aggravated robbery |
| Date of Arrest | Friday (either August 22 or 25, 2025) |
| Suspects’ Ages | Both 14-year-old males |
| Names Disclosed? | No — per juvenile confidentiality policy |
| Weapons Recovered | Stolen gun; knife |
| Investigation Aid | Tip from Lyon County Crime Stoppers |
| Announced By | Capt. Lisa Hayes, Investigations Captain, EPD |
| Legal Principle | Suspects presumed innocent until proven guilty |
| EPD Thanks | Public and Crime Stoppers for community cooperation |
In-Depth Details & Context
The Incident Itself
In the early hours of Sunday, August 17, two teenagers allegedly attempted to rob a man as he exited a convenience store in the 1100 block of East 12th Avenue. The scenario turned particularly alarming when it appeared one teen was wielding a gun, while the other may have had a knife, escalating the situation to aggravated offense level.
The Investigation’s Turning Point
The case remained unresolved until an anonymous tip was submitted to Lyon County Crime Stoppers. This tip became the critical breakthrough—prompting detectives to recover the stolen firearm used in the incident, along with a knife believed to be involved in the crime. The firearm was confirmed as stolen prior to the attempted robbery.
Swift Apprehension
Thanks to the tip and solid detective work, both juveniles were taken into custody on Friday—reports vary between August 22 and August 25, 2025. The discrepancy relates to whether the arrest was mid-week or at week’s end, but both align with “Friday”.
Juvenile Policy & Community Thanks
To protect minors, EPD adheres to a strict policy prohibiting the release of juvenile identities. Capt. Lisa Hayes emphasized this policy while delivering the update. Additionally, she stressed that the juveniles should be treated under the legal presumption of innocence.
EPD also extended its gratitude to the community and Crime Stoppers, highlighting the effectiveness of public-law enforcement collaboration.
The Emporia attempted robbery case is a sobering example of how seemingly quiet neighborhoods can face dramatic criminal incidents. Yet, it also highlights how vigilant community involvement, through channels like Crime Stoppers, can empower law enforcement to act decisively.
While two minors face serious allegations, they remain protected by juvenile law and the presumption of innocence. As the investigation continues, Emporia’s residents are reminded of the power of their role in aiding justice and maintaining community safety