Coral Springs police arrest teen after suspicious behavior outside closed business while wearing a mask late at night
Coral Springs, Florida – Coral Springs police arrested an 18-year-old teen after officers spotted him loitering outside a closed business while wearing a balaclava-style mask, raising immediate concerns for public safety. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. on September 29 at Northbrook Automotive & Tire, located at 11220 Wiles Road.
According to the arrest report, the teen, identified as Nikolas Alonso, was dressed in all black, including a hoodie and long pants, despite the warm 80-degree weather. Officers noted that Alonso’s hood was up and his balaclava covered most of his face as he walked along the side of the closed business. When he saw the marked patrol car approaching, he immediately turned and walked toward the back of the building, where several unoccupied vehicles were parked.
The responding officer used the patrol car’s high-beam lights to spotlight Alonso and ordered him to stop. Alonso then removed his mask and hood but appeared nervous, frequently glancing around, and even reached into his pockets without prompting. The officer’s concern for potential flight or suspicious activity prompted a call for backup. Once additional officers arrived, Alonso was detained without incident.
During the initial questioning, Alonso did not have any identification on him. Police later confirmed his identity through a state database, ensuring that the teen’s information was verified. Alonso admitted to hiding his electric scooter behind the company to remain out of sight of the road. The scooter was still powered on when found hidden in an alley near the property.
When asked about his actions, Alonso told officers he had stopped to look at the vehicles in the lot and deliberately tried to avoid being captured by the business’s surveillance cameras. He added that he had originally planned to go to a nearby 7-Eleven, but instead decided to linger around the closed business to examine the cars.
Police noted that all surrounding businesses were closed, lights were off, and there were no other people in the area, which added to the concern. The report highlighted that Alonso’s behavior caused “alarm and immediate concern for the safety of property in the area,” prompting his arrest.
Alonso was charged with loitering or prowling and wearing a mask while committing a second-degree misdemeanor. Following his arrest, he was booked into the Broward County Main Jail and later released under pretrial supervision, authorities confirmed.
The incident has raised concerns among residents and business owners about the potential risks posed by individuals lingering near commercial properties during late-night hours. Officers emphasized that while Alonso did not commit any further crimes, his behavior was deemed suspicious enough to warrant intervention.
Coral Springs police said they remain committed to maintaining public safety and responding promptly to reports of suspicious activity. The department also reminded residents and business owners to report any unusual behavior around their properties, particularly during hours when businesses are closed.
The case also underscores the risks associated with wearing masks in public in a suspicious context, as well as the importance of police being vigilant in areas where commercial property could be vulnerable. While Alonso explained his intent as merely looking at cars, officers and authorities considered his clothing choices, mask, and actions as factors that created reasonable concern.
“This arrest highlights the need for awareness and quick response when unusual activity is observed in the community,” a Coral Springs police spokesperson said. “Even if no damage occurs, behaviors that cause alarm and put property at risk must be addressed promptly to ensure the safety of residents and businesses alike.”
Alonso’s court date has not been publicly released, and the teen remains under pretrial supervision. Authorities continue to investigate similar reports and encourage local residents to remain vigilant while going about late-night activities.
y taking swift action, Coral Springs police aim to prevent potential incidents and assure the community that suspicious behaviors, even by individuals claiming innocent intent, will be carefully evaluated to protect public safety and property.
This arrest serves as a reminder that loitering or prowling, particularly when combined with attempts to conceal identity, can result in legal consequences even without direct criminal intent. Residents and teens alike are urged to understand the legal implications of loitering and to avoid situations that may raise alarm among law enforcement or the community.
With the city’s commitment to safety and proactive policing, incidents like Alonso’s are addressed promptly, maintaining confidence in Coral Springs law enforcement and reinforcing the importance of responsible behavior in public spaces.
