Four Arrested in Los Angeles Taco Truck Robberies

Police in East Los Angeles arrested four men in connection with a series of armed taco truck robberies, the Long Beach Press Telegram reports. All men were taken into custody for their alleged involvement in at least 22 felony armed robberies of taco trucks beginning in April. Police said two of the men were positively identified in a photo lineup as being responsible for the June 28th robbery and felony assault with a deadly weapon. Three others were also identified shortly afterward. According to the newspaper story, there is still one robbery suspect remaining at large.

Robbery is a serious felony crime with serious consequences in California. It is classified as a violent theft crime because most robberies involve violence or the imminent threat of violence or injury to a victim. California Penal Code section 211 defines robbery as “the felonious taking of personal property in the possession of another, from his person or immediate presence, and against his will, accomplished by means of force or fear.” If use of a weapon or firearm is involved in the theft or if there is gang involvement, defendants may face “enhancements,” that could lead to much stiffer penalties.

The highest numbers of wrongful felony theft convictions probably occur in robbery cases because of mistaken identity. Suspects are usually picked from a police lineup and very often, a victim or witness’ memory of the suspect could be hazy, leading to a mistaken identification. A robbery, theft or fraud conviction can lead to a lengthy prison sentence, especially if there are multiple counts of theft. It can even add up to a life sentence.

If you or a family member has been charged with a theft offense, fraud or robbery in Los Angeles, please contact an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer at Sitkoff & Hanrahan for a free consultation. We will analyze all of the evidence, interview witnesses and conduct a thorough, independent investigation to help protect your rights and make every effort to obtain a positive outcome in your felony theft case. Call us today at 866-430-8383.

Source article: http://www.presstelegram.com/crime/ci_13012052