In the aftermath of the weekend attack on three Marines near the San Clemente Pier, law enforcement officials have made significant progress in apprehending those responsible. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department announced on Tuesday that a total of nine juveniles have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Among the arrested individuals are four boys and a female, who were booked into Orange County Juvenile Hall on charges of assault with a deadly weapon (non-firearm). Additionally, San Clemente Mayor Chris Duncan informed the Los Angeles Times that four more minors were arrested on different charges.
The violent incident occurred around 9:15 p.m. on Friday near the pier, according to Orange County Sheriff’s Department spokesperson Mike Woodroof. The Marines sustained minor injuries to their hands, knees, abdomens, and heads, but they declined to be transported to a hospital.
The exact number of assailants involved remains unclear, with estimates ranging from 10 to 30 individuals. San Clemente Mayor Chris Duncan expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing that such behavior contradicts the values upheld by the community.
“We take this matter with the utmost seriousness and will not tolerate this kind of behavior in our city,” Mayor Duncan stated. “The fact that this incident occurred over Memorial Day weekend is particularly tragic.”
The Orange County Sheriff’s Department has urged anyone with information related to the beating to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation. Individuals can contact the department at 949-425-1956, while anonymous tipsters have the option to reach out to Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS.
