Police briefs for Wednesday, July 31, 2002

Driver brandishes shotgun at Dale City fast food restaurant

A tailgating incident in Dale City on Monday led to one driver pointing a shotgun at another in a fast food restaurant parking lot, Prince William police said Tuesday.

The victim, 20, told police he was driving in his car with his girlfriend when the suspect began tailgating him. The suspect then pulled alongside the car, attempting to make contact with the victim’s girlfriend. The suspect followed them to the Wendy’s at Cheshire Plaza in Dale City, where the victim and suspect argued.

Police say the suspect turned to leave and pulled a shotgun from his car before driving off. The suspect was driving a light blue late ’80s model Oldsmobile Cutlass with Pennsylvania plates. The car had a big speaker in the back window.

The suspect is described as white, between 16 and 20 years old, 170 pounds with brown hair and a thin build. He was wearing a red shirt.

Police say Dale City man carried machete at mall

A Dale City man was arrested for carrying a machete at Potomac Mills mall on Friday, according to Detective Dennis Mangan, Prince William police spokesman, on Tuesday.

Mangan said an officer at the mall witnessed Corey Anthony Stephens lift his shirt and show other people an object. Suspecting a concealed weapon, the officer called for more officers. Stephens was stopped in front of Linens ‘N Things.

Mangan said Stephens, age unknown, was carrying a 2-foot-long machete in a sheath. He is being held on a $1,500 bond.

Boy beaten and robbed on Dale City street

A 14-year-old boy was assaulted and robbed Sunday at 8:20 p.m. on Hendricks Drive in Dale City, Prince William police said Tuesday.

The victim said he was riding his bicycle when he was surrounded by a group of boys. According to police, one of them punched the victim and took his bike. One 16-year-old juvenile has been identified in the case. Police do not release the names of juveniles.

Lake Ridge woman tells police she was assaulted near home

A 24-year-old woman was assaulted Sunday just before noon on Penshurst Lane in Lake Ridge, Prince William police said Tuesday.

The victim told police she was walking on the sidewalk toward her apartment when a man ran up, grabbed her from behind, and ran away.

The suspect is described as black and 5 feet 6 inches tall.