Two Men Plead Guilty to Armed Robberies Targeting Casino Winners in Southern California
Duo robbed more than a dozen SoCal casino winners, until their luck ran out
Image: Los Angeles Times
Derek Nathan Lopez and Juan Gabriel Gonzalez pleaded guilty to over a dozen armed robberies targeting casino winners in Southern California. They stole approximately $274,000 in cash and property from victims between May and December 2023, using firearms to intimidate them during highway ambushes.
- 01Lopez and Gonzalez pleaded guilty to one count of interference with commerce by robbery.
- 02The duo committed at least 15 robberies and attempted robberies from May to December 2023.
- 03They targeted casinos including Hustler Casino, Parkwest Bicycle Casino, and Commerce Casino & Hotel.
- 04In one incident, they stole $130,000 from victims leaving Parkwest Bicycle Casino.
- 05Lopez illegally possessed three firearms and ammunition due to his criminal history.
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Derek Nathan Lopez, 22, and Juan Gabriel Gonzalez, 23, both from South Gate, California, pleaded guilty to multiple armed robberies targeting casino winners in Southern California. From May to December 2023, they committed at least 15 robberies, ambushing victims on highways after identifying them at casinos such as Hustler Casino and Parkwest Bicycle Casino. The pair used firearms to intimidate their victims, stealing approximately $274,000 in cash, casino chips, and personal property. In one notable incident in June 2023, they stole $130,000 from two victims after they left a casino. Additionally, Lopez was found in illegal possession of firearms and ammunition due to prior convictions. Sentencing for both men is scheduled for August 2024, as they face serious consequences for their crimes.
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The robberies created a significant concern for safety among casino patrons in Southern California.
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