Suspect arrested in string of armed robberies of taco trucks in San Fernando Valley, LAPD says

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES (KABC) — A 22-year-old man suspected of committing a string of armed robberies at food trucks and a 7-Eleven store in the San Fernando Valley and North Hollywood has been taken into custody, police said.

Jesus Garcia-Sotelo allegedly robbed one 7-Eleven and seven taco trucks, including one at the intersection of Foothill and Van Nuys boulevards where $400 was stolen.

According to police, three of these robberies took place in one night.

“He was on post-release community supervision at the time of the arrest. He had a criminal history that included theft, weapons violations and other crimes,” said LAPD Detective Timothy Kirkpatrick.

Detectives said Garcia-Sotelo threatened the victims with a gun but never opened fire. Investigators said evidence from the robberies was discovered at the suspect’s home, including cash and getaway vehicles.

“The LA District Attorney’s Office has filed eight charges of robbery with a gun, two charges of attempted robbery with a gun, and 10 charges of assault with a firearm,” said LAPD Captain Warner Castillo.

The LAPD also announced the arrests of four unnamed suspects in connection with eight ATM burglaries in the Mission area. The suspects range from 24 to 40 years old.

According to police, the suspects tied a chain around the ATM and used a car to pull the machine out of the business.

“It has caused thousands of dollars in damage to small mom-and-pop businesses and disrupted their daily operations,” said LAPD Lt. Samer Issa.