Two face federal charges for California armed robberies

Two suspects face federal charges for a series of armed robberies in Southern California, one being an illegal immigrant previously deported.

Jesus Soto-Parada, 26, and Daniel Pavon, 20, were apprehended on 13 June after fleeing a 7-Eleven robbery in Gardena, Los Angeles, according to federal court documents. Authorities accuse them of robbing eight convenience stores over five months, stated the Justice Department.

“These defendants’ alleged violent crime spree has now earned them federal criminal charges carrying major potential prison time,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “Criminals should take note that we are partnering with local law enforcement more than ever to send a clear message that violent crime has no place in our community.”

Although Soto-Parada was deported to El Salvador during the spree, he returned to the US and continued the robberies, prosecutors said. He resided in Los Angeles. Pavon, a Honduran citizen, has an unclear legal status.

Federal authorities arrested Soto-Parada in 2016 and 2022 for immigration violations. He was arrested on 7 March and deported to El Salvador on 12 April. Pavon was arrested on 7 May for weapons possession, according to prosecutors. He claimed he needed the 9 mm pistol for protection, court documents revealed.

The pair, along with other accomplices, allegedly began their robbery spree on 11 January, targeting convenience stores in Los Angeles and Orange counties.

Arrested during a traffic stop, officers discovered cash, a box of blue medical face masks, a tracking device, a black replica semi-automatic handgun, and two black hooded sweatshirts in their vehicle, prosecutors reported.

A Gardena store clerk identified both men as the robbers, noting they wore hooded sweatshirts during the incident.

The suspects allegedly stole approximately $13,950 in cash and $7,415 in merchandise. They face up to 20 years in prison.