Alleged Robber from Altadena Arrested Within Minutes of “Strong Arm” Crime

An alleged robber was arrested just minutes after he demanded his victim’s money and cellphone in an Old Pasadenas encounter around 1:55 a.m. Saturday morning.

Pasadena police Lieutenant John Mercado said that during the confrontation the victim, who was sitting on a bench in an alley that connects Union Street with Colorado Boulevard in the 100 block of East Union Street, became fearful for his life and handed over his possessions.

Police officers patrolling Old Pasadena on foot almost immediately were advised of the robbery, Mercado said, and quickly made contact with the suspect.

When the suspect was searched, he allegedly was carrying the cell phone from 22-year-old male victim.

Mercado said officers arrested the suspect, identified as Daniel Nelson, 21, from Altadena. The victim was not injured in the incident.