Police were seeking information earlier this month regarding a suspected armed robber who they believe had committed five armed robberies in the Redwood City and North Fair Oaks areas. On August 15, a photo was released by police in Redwood City of the suspect in the hopes that the public would recognize him and assist police in their efforts to capture him.
The most recent in the string of robberies took place on Tuesday, August 14 at Mi Hacienda Taqueria, a restaurant located at 985 Second Ave. according to Sgt. Sean Hart of the Redwood City Police. According to news reports, the suspect went into the restaurant at approximately 8:15 p.m. and demanded cash from the clerk; the suspect allegedly had a handgun at the time of the robbery.
The clerk complied with the robber’s demands, who then fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of money. At the time of the robbery, two patrons were in the restaurant although they were not robbed. No one was injured in the incident.
Sgt. Hart said that it was believed that the man was connected with four other armed robberies in the month of August in the North Fair Oaks and Redwood City areas. The suspect is believed to be a Hispanic man in his 20s or 30s of medium build and about 5’8″ to 5’10” in height.
The four armed robberies it is believed the suspect committed took place on August 7, 8, 9 and 11. The businesses robbed include Willow Street Market at 37 Willow Street, Panaderia Michoacan Market, El Paisano Carniceria Market at 2856 Middlefield Road and A1 Express gas station at 785 Fifth Ave.
Redwood City criminal defense attorneys understand that armed robbery is an extremely serious offense; those convicted will face severe penalties, perhaps life in prison if considered a “strike” offense. In most cases, those convicted of robbery face up to 3, 6 or 9 years in prison; the use of a firearm in the commission of the crime will add an additional year to the sentence.
If you have been arrested for robbery or armed robbery, consult with a capable and aggressive Redwood City criminal defense lawyer right away.
