Why was a teen handcuffed at a Houston Rockets game?

The teen was handcuffed after arena security falsely accused him of stealing from the team store, despite later being cleared with proof of purchase.

What was the Houston Police Department's response to the handcuffing incident?

The department stated that an officer was informed by security about the alleged theft and that handcuffing is their policy during detention for questioning.

What is Toyota Center's stance on the incident?

Toyota Center acknowledged the event, stated they are reviewing it carefully, and committed to reaching out to the family involved.

Home / Crime and Justice / Rockets Game Trip Ends in Handcuffs for Teen

Rockets Game Trip Ends in Handcuffs for Teen

12 Feb

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Summary

Teenager detained and handcuffed at Rockets game after alleged theft.
Family released after proving purchase with a receipt.
Venue and police cite policy, but family feels disrespected.

Rockets Game Trip Ends in Handcuffs for Teen

A father and son's outing to a Houston Rockets game at the Toyota Center on Tuesday night concluded with the teen son being detained and handcuffed, following an alleged accusation of theft from the team store. The family stated that the situation only resolved after they presented their receipt, confirming their purchase.

Mark Cepeda reported that his 18-year-old son, Noah Cepeda, was stopped en route to their seats, initially questioned about a hat he was wearing, which security then cleared. However, approximately 30 minutes later, two officers approached them, leading to Noah being handcuffed and escorted through the arena. The family claims officers cited arena camera footage as evidence of theft.

After being taken to an office for questioning, Mark provided proof of purchase. The Houston Police Department stated that an officer was informed by security about the teen having allegedly stolen from the shop and that handcuffing is their policy during detention for questioning.