Hector Rivera Ayala, Bank Robbery & Hobbs Act Robberies, New Hampshire 2021

Hector Rivera Ayala, a 34-year-old man from Manchester, New Hampshire, has been making headlines after pleading guilty to a series of bank robberies and Hobbs Act robberies. The crimes took place in December 2019, when Ayala robbed four gas stations and one bank in Manchester. The gas stations included Rapid Refill on Second Street, Brother’s Express Gas Station on Union Street, Shell Gas Station on Eddy Road, and Shell Gas Station on Hanover Street. The bank robbed was the Bank of New England on Elm Street.

According to the investigation, Ayala entered each of the gas stations and bank with his face partially obscured and carrying what appeared to be a firearm. The video surveillance footage captured each of the robberies, which helped investigators identify Ayala as the suspect. A shawl and a BB gun were recovered from the crime scene of one of the gas stations, and Ayala’s DNA was found on the shawl. The investigation revealed that Ayala stole more than $5,500 from the gas stations and more than $160,000 from the bank.

The Hobbs Act is a federal law that prohibits the obstruction of commerce through robbery or extortion. The law provides severe penalties, including up to 20 years in prison, for those who commit such crimes. Ayala was charged with four counts of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of bank robbery. He was charged on May 14, 2021.

Ayala’s guilty plea comes after a lengthy investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter is prosecuting the case. The U.S. District Court Judge, Elliott, has scheduled Ayala’s sentencing for August 1, 2023.

The investigation and subsequent charges have left many questioning how Ayala was able to carry out such a series of crimes without being caught sooner. However, the video surveillance footage and DNA evidence played a crucial role in bringing Ayala to justice.

Ayala’s sentencing will be a significant moment in this case, as it will determine the extent of his punishment. The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000, and restitution. The judge will consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes when determining the sentence.

The case serves as a reminder of the importance of community involvement and cooperation in preventing and solving crimes. The Manchester community can rest a little easier knowing that justice is being served, and Ayala will face the consequences of his actions.

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