August 13, 2025 – Punta Gorda, FL
A teenage boy is in custody after using a modified airsoft gun to rob a convenience store for vape pens.
On August 13 at approximately 1:00 p.m. deputies responded to the Deep Creek Discount Store on Sandhill Blvd. in Punta Gorda in reference to an armed robbery. Once deputies arrived on scene, the victim stated that while working behind the checkout counter, a young male later identified as Oliver Britton (11/10/2011), entered the store and pointed what appeared to be a small black handgun at the victim. Britton demanded vape pens and threatened to shoot the victim if he did not comply with his demand. In fear for his life, the victim handed over the vape pens and Britton promptly exited the store with an energy drink and the pens in hand.
“To make such calculated poor decisions at this young age is appalling. Violence of any kind is unacceptable, and to put someone in fear for their life over vape pens just doesn’t make sense. I am thankful that no one was hurt in this situation and that my deputies were able to get him in handcuffs so quickly. Parents, now more than ever, as your children head back to the classroom this week, I urge you to talk to them about the consequences of the decisions they make and stress to them the dangers of gun violence.”
-Sheriff Bill Prummell
It was quickly discovered that Britton had fled to the nearby Beef O’ Brady’s where deputies detained and searched him. A small black airsoft handgun was located on his person along with the two vape pens. Britton was then transported to the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office for questioning. He admitted to planning the robbery, altering the appearance of the airsoft gun by taking off the orange tip, and then putting black electrical tape on it to make it appear more real. Britton was placed under arrest, transported to the Charlotte County Jail, and charged with robbery with a firearm.
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