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

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

Jesus Garcia-Sotelo allegedly robbed a 7-Eleven truck and seven tacos, including one at the intersection of Foothill and Van Nuys avenues, where $400 was stolen.

Police say three of these robberies happened in one night.

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

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

“The LA District Attorney’s Office filed eight counts of robbery with a handgun, two counts of attempted robbery with a handgun, and ten counts of assault with a firearm,” said Capt. Warner Castillo of the LAPD.

The LAPD also announced the arrest of four unnamed suspects linked to eight ATM break-ins in the Mission area. The suspects are between 24 and 40 years old.

Police said those suspects tied a chain around the ATM and used a car to drive the machine out of the business.

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