Davenport, Florida, December 10, 2025
Eight players from Philadelphia’s United Thoroughbreds youth football team were arrested for theft at a Dick’s Sporting Goods in Florida. The group, aged 14-15, allegedly stole over $2,000 worth of merchandise, resulting in their absence from the championship game. This incident has raised significant concerns in the community regarding youth behavior and accountability in sports amidst ongoing legal proceedings.
Philadelphia, PA
Eighth Youth Football Players Arrested in Florida Theft
Concerns Rise Over Youth Behavior Following Retail Theft Incident
In an unfortunate incident that has raised concerns within the community, eight members of a Philadelphia youth football team, the United Thoroughbreds, were arrested on charges of felony retail theft in Polk County, Florida. The young athletes, aged 14 to 15, are accused of stealing more than $2,000 worth of merchandise from a Dick’s Sporting Goods store during their stay in Davenport for the Prolifix Nationals tournament on December 6, 2025. This incident not only led to their arrests but also to a missed opportunity to compete in the championship game that day.
This incident highlights the complexities of youth engagement in sports and the importance of discipline in competitive environments. As communities strive to foster positive development among young people, incidents of this nature serve as a reminder of the critical role that accountability plays in shaping character and values. Leaders in the community and education sectors are observing the situation closely, seeking to address the root causes of such behaviors.
Incident Details
On the morning of December 6, deputies responded to a report of retail theft at Dick’s Sporting Goods in Posner Plaza, Davenport. The store had contacted local authorities after noticing multiple juveniles concealing merchandise. Surveillance footage subsequently revealed that the group had entered the store in two separate clusters, coordinating their actions to steal items, which included hoodies, beanies, football gloves, and other athletic gear, amounting to a total value of $2,296.07.
Arrests and Charges
All eight juveniles were subsequently detained and taken to the Juvenile Assessment Center, facing serious charges of felony retail theft over $750 and felony conspiracy to commit retail theft. As a direct consequence of these arrests, the team members were unable to participate in the highly anticipated championship game scheduled for later that day, leaving their families and supporters disappointed.
Team’s Response
The United Thoroughbreds’ coach, Raekwon Bynes, expressed his disappointment over the incident, reinforcing the significance of discipline and accountability in sports. He remarked on the team’s dedication to fostering positive experiences through sports and emphasized the necessity of addressing the lessons learned from this incident.
Legal Proceedings
As the investigation continues, the case remains open, and the juveniles will be required to return to Florida to face ongoing legal proceedings. The case highlights both the immediate and long-term impacts of poor choices made by youth, as well as the importance of community support systems to guide them effectively.
Background
The United Thoroughbreds are a youth football team based in Philadelphia, recognized for their energetic participation in various local and national tournaments. They traveled to Florida with high hopes of competing and excelling in the Prolifix Nationals tournament, making the theft incident all the more disheartening.
Community Impact
The theft has sparked discussions within the Philadelphia community about youth behavior and the potential consequences of such actions. Collaborations between the team’s management, local authorities, and community leaders are expected as they work together to foster accountability and positive youth engagement in sports.
FAQs
What were the charges against the eight juveniles?
The juveniles were charged with felony retail theft over $750 and felony conspiracy to commit retail theft.
What items were stolen from the store?
The stolen items included hoodies, beanies, football gloves, and other athletic gear, totaling $2,296.07 in value.
Why were the juveniles unable to participate in the championship game?
Due to their arrests, the juveniles were unable to participate in the scheduled championship game.
What is the United Thoroughbreds team?
The United Thoroughbreds are a youth football team based in Philadelphia, known for participating in various tournaments and championships.
What is the current status of the legal proceedings?
The case is under investigation, and the juveniles will have to return to Florida as proceedings continue.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | December 6, 2025 |
| Location | Davenport, Florida |
| Store Involved | Dick’s Sporting Goods, Posner Plaza |
| Team Name | United Thoroughbreds |
| Charges | Felony retail theft over $750 and felony conspiracy to commit retail theft |
| Total Value of Stolen Items | $2,296.07 |
| Items Stolen | Hoodies, beanies, football gloves, and other athletic gear |
| Age of Juveniles | 14 to 15 years old |
| Outcome | Unable to participate in the championship game due to arrests |
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