North Charleston Police officers (NCPD) arrested a juvenile Saturday for possessing a stolen firearm and a 19-year-old man who allegedly purchased the gun from the juvenile.

According to police, around 7:30 p.m., an officer working an off-duty assignment at Northwoods Mall was conducting foot patrol alongside the mall’s security K-9 unit when one of three males approached the handler to ask about the dog’s breed.

During the interaction, the security dog alerted to the possible presence of a firearm, and the officer reportedly smelled marijuana coming from one of the males. The officer then instructed the subjects to remain in place while he conducted further investigation to determine whether they possessed firearms or narcotics.

One juvenile suspect fled through the mall, allegedly while armed, as the security officer remained with the other individuals. The officer notified dispatch that he was pursuing a possibly armed suspect on foot.

After a short chase, the juvenile was apprehended and charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Person Under 18.

Police also searched a second suspect, identified as J'Shawn Nisar Barnett, 19, of Walterboro and discovered a handgun in his pants pocket. A records check revealed the firearm had been reported stolen in Berkeley County.

Barnett was charged with Receiving Stolen Goods Less Than $1,000 and Simple Possession of Marijuana. He was transported to Al Cannon Detention Center.

The juvenile was taken to the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice.