Two suspects, one of whom is an illegal immigrant previously deported, are facing federal charges for going on an armed robbery spree in Southern California. Jesus Soto-Parada, 26, and Daniel Pavon, 20, were apprehended on June 13 while attempting to flee from a robbery at a 7-Eleven in Gardena, a federal court complaint revealed. The Justice Department disclosed that both men are accused of robbing eight convenience stores over a five-month period.
United States Attorney Martin Estrada emphasized the severity of the charges, stating, 'These defendants’ alleged violent crime spree has now earned them federal criminal charges carrying major potential prison time. 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.'
Soto-Parada, who had been deported to El Salvador during the robbery spree, managed to return to the United States and continued committing robberies, according to federal prosecutors. He resided in Los Angeles. Pavon, on the other hand, is a Honduran citizen, with his legal status remaining unclear.
Soto-Parada had previous encounters with federal authorities for immigration violations, having been arrested in 2016 and 2022. He was deported to El Salvador on April 12 after his arrest on March 7. Pavon was also arrested on May 7 for weapons possession, claiming he needed a 9 mm pistol for protection, as per court documents.
The crime spree, involving Soto-Parada, Pavon, and other accomplices, commenced on Jan. 11 with the robbery of a convenience store. Subsequently, they targeted convenience stores across Southern California, spanning Los Angeles and Orange counties.
Both suspects were apprehended during a traffic stop, where a search of their vehicle uncovered cash, medical face masks, a tracking device, a replica semi-automatic handgun, and black hooded sweatshirts. A store clerk in Gardena positively identified them as the robbers, noting their attire during the heist.
Overall, the stolen loot amounted to approximately $13,950 in cash and $7,415 in merchandise. Soto-Parada and Pavon are now facing the possibility of up to 20 years in prison for their alleged crimes.
