Norwood Police Arrest Two Following Robbery, Vehicle Theft and Brief Pursuit

From left, JOHANNS MIRANDA PIZARRO, 23, of BOSTON, and DEMARCUS ATKINS, 20, of NORWOOD, were arrested by Norwood Police and charged in connection with a robbery and carjacking. (Photos Courtesy Norwood Police Department)

NORWOOD — Chief Christopher Padden reports that the Norwood Police Department arrested two individuals Thursday night after they allegedly robbed a man, stole his vehicle and fled from officers before being taken into custody.

At approximately 9:41 p.m. on July 16, Officer Sean Kelly was on patrol and attempted to stop a Honda Accord traveling on Broadway after observing the vehicle operating without headlights or taillights. He also observed the car run a stop sign.

When Officer Kelly attempted to stop the car, the driver failed to stop and continued through several streets before officers discontinued the pursuit.

A short time later, while searching the area, a witness alerted officers that two men abandoned a vehicle and fled on foot.

Officer Kelly then witnessed two people running on Winter Street. Additional officers arrived on scene to assist Officer Kelly, who was able to take the suspects into custody following a brief foot pursuit. 

During the investigation, a man contacted police to report that he had recently been assaulted and that his vehicle had been stolen from the area of the Norwood Central commuter rail station.

The preliminary investigation determined that the victim had arranged to meet one of the suspects at the train station. During the encounter, the victim was assaulted by two suspects, who stole his cellphone, vehicle keys, and car before fleeing. The victim suffered minor injuries.

The investigation determined that the Honda Accord recovered following the pursuit was the same vehicle reported stolen by the victim.

JOHANNS MIRANDA PIZARRO, 23, of BOSTON, was arrested and charged with:

• Unarmed Robbery
• Carjacking
• Conspiracy
• Larceny of a Motor Vehicle (Subsequent Offense)
• Assault and Battery
• Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
• Failure to Stop for Police
• Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended License
• Failure to Stop or Yield
• Motor Vehicle Lights Violation

DEMARCUS ATKINS, 20, of NORWOOD, was arrested and charged with:

• Unarmed Robbery
• Carjacking
• Conspiracy
• Larceny of a Motor Vehicle
• Assault and Battery

“Through interviews conducted by Officer Tyler Baker and Officer Kelly, they were able to piece together the events leading up to the robbery,” said Chief Padden. “This case highlights the value of proactive policing, outstanding teamwork, and quick decision-making on behalf of the officers of the 4-12 shift. What began as a simple motor vehicle violation quickly developed into the apprehension of two robbery suspects, the recovery of a stolen vehicle, and the successful investigation of a violent crime.”

MIRANDA PIZARRO and ATKINS are expected to be arraigned in Dedham District Court on Friday. 

These charges are allegations. All suspects are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

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