2 charged with robbing Heat guard, restaurant

Roger Mason Jr robbed at Ni.Do. Caffe

MIAMI ā€“ Police arrested two men accused of robbing Miami Heat guard Roger Mason Jr. and his family on Sunday night at a restaurant in Miami's MiMo District.

Police arrested Steven Dawson and Rashaud Stroud on Monday evening following a police chase. Investigators say they and two others robbed Mason and employees at Ni.Do. Caffe while the guard dined their with his family after the Heat's victory over the Charlotte Bobcats.

"It was a scary moment. We talked about it as a team," said coach Erik Spoelstra. "Thankfully they came out of it -- you have to count your blessings sometimes."

"I'm always are of my surroundings," added Chris Bosh. "I think that just comes with the job."

A police officer saw a black Cadillac Escalade believed to have been used in the robbery on Monday evening, according to Miami-Dade police. The driver refused to stop and drove off until he rammed a police cruiser at Northwest 148th Street and 18th Avenue.

Detectives found a Rolex belonging to Mason on Dawson, according to an arrest affidavit. Stroud also admitted to robbing the restaurant, police say.

Dawson, 30, was charged with armed robbery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm while committing a felony, and possession of stolen property. Stroud, 32, was charged with armed robbery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm while committing a felony.

The Miami Police Department's robbery unit hasn't reported an uptick in armed robberies similar to the one that happened Sunday. Detectives said victims should cooperate if faced with a similar situation.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of the other two involved in the robbery is asked to Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS.


About the Authors:

Liane Morejon is an Emmy-winning reporter who joined the Local 10 News family in January 2010. Born and raised in Coral Gables, Liane has a unique perspective on covering news in her own backyard.