Clemente Garcia Jr, Armed Robbery, Kansas 2022

WICHITA, KS – Clemente Garcia Jr., 35, is facing serious federal charges after allegedly opening fire with a high-caliber rifle during a robbery at a Wichita restaurant in November 2022. The brazen act has landed Garcia in the crosshairs of both the Wichita Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Garcia with interference with commerce by threats or violence, using and carrying a firearm during a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted on all counts, Garcia could face decades behind bars. Details of the robbery itself remain scarce, but sources indicate the restaurant was occupied at the time of the shooting, raising concerns about potential victims.

This isn’t just a simple robbery gone wrong. The charges reflect a calculated escalation of violence, turning a property crime into a potentially deadly federal offense. The “interference with commerce” charge highlights how such acts impact the broader economy, even locally. The ATF’s involvement suggests a sophisticated investigation, likely involving ballistics analysis and tracing of the weapon used in the crime.

Garcia’s prior criminal history is now a key component of the case. As a convicted felon, he was already prohibited from possessing a firearm. This adds another layer to the charges and will likely be a significant point during trial. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas, led by Kate E. Brubacher, is aggressively prosecuting the case, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Ola Odeyemi leading the charge.

Beyond Garcia, the federal docket in Wichita is overflowing with other recent indictments. Chad Gibson, 50, is accused of theft of government property. Antonio Knight, 25, faces charges related to fentanyl distribution. Jason Moody, 50, of Coffeyville is charged with two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Eric Saldana, 37, is indicted on methamphetamine and cocaine distribution charges. Clifton Weatherspoon, 31, is facing fentanyl distribution and firearm charges. These cases, all actively prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, paint a picture of a busy federal law enforcement presence in the Wichita area.

It’s crucial to remember that an indictment is not a conviction. Clemente Garcia Jr., along with all other defendants mentioned, is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. However, the evidence presented to the grand jury clearly convinced them there’s enough cause to move forward with a full trial. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on developments as they unfold.

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