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Drunk teen arrested for trying to steal purse

Posted at 2:39 PM, Dec 28, 2015
and last updated 2015-12-28 16:39:31-05

Phoenix police say a drunk and defiant teen attempted to steal a purse from another man earlier this month.

Police say in court records that 19-year-old Roberto Cadena pulled a gun out of his waistband when the victim didn't give up the bag. Instead, the man grabbed the gun and pulled it away.

The victim then ran inside a nearby Circle K near 40th Street and Thunderbird Road where another citizen helped hold the door closed to prevent Cadena from getting inside, according to police records. Cadena did get inside, but another person threw him out of the store and pinned him to the ground.

Police say the teen got out of the hold and tried to go after the victim inside the store again, but was arrested shortly after. The incident happened on Dec. 12.

Cadena's blood-alcohol level was .337, over four times the legal limit, according to records. There was also trace amounts of cocaine detected.

Police referred to the suspect's gun as a "starter's pistol" in court documents.

He faces multiple charges including armed robbery, disorderly conduct and underage drinking.