Photo: Markus Schnessl / iStock / Getty Images
Naples, FL - Three Fort Lauderdale men are facing charges after being arrested for a robbery attempt at Saks Fifth Avenue in Naples.
The three men, identified as 27-year-old Michael Lawrence Knight, 32-year-old Harmon Brown, and 31-year-old Keion Jamaal Payne, allegedly targeted Chanel purses at the Waterside Shops location on Tuesday afternoon.
The men resorted to pepper-spraying employees who tried to intervene during the robbery and subsequent escape.
Collier County deputies responded to the scene and located the getaway vehicle, a BMW SUV, speeding towards I-75 on Golden Gate Parkway.
A pursuit ensued after the driver, identified as Brown, ignored attempts to pull over.
The chase turned dangerous during rush hour traffic as Brown reportedly struck another vehicle and drove recklessly on sidewalks and in oncoming lanes, before finally stopping at a shopping plaza.
The suspects attempted a last-ditch escape on foot, but were quickly apprehended by deputies.
The men were arrested on charges of armed robbery, aggravated battery, and fleeing and eluding law enforcement.
Collier County Sheriff Rambosk addressed the theft, stating, "These arrests send a strong message to criminals: Don't come to Collier County to carry out your felonious activity. Our deputies and detectives are second to none and they will identify you, find you, and arrest you."