In a recent development, a man from the L.A. Harbor Area has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for an armed robbery spree that specifically targeted businesses in the South Bay area. Stevo Mijanovic, 20, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including Hobbs Act robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. Over a six-month period, Mijanovic committed a series of armed robberies at restaurants, convenience stores, and gas stations, instilling fear in both employees and bystanders. Notably, he pointed a gun at a pregnant gas station employee and escaped with approximately $180 from the cash register. The case was investigated by the FBI and the Los Angeles Police Department, with Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chou leading the prosecution. Mijanovic’s sentencing serves as a reminder of the significant consequences faced by those who engage in violent crimes in the South Bay area.
Overview of the Case
The Sentencing
In a recent case in the Central District of California, a Wilmington man named Stevo Mijanovic was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for a series of armed robberies targeting businesses in the South Bay area of Los Angeles County. The sentencing was handed down by United States District Judge R. Gary Klausner.
Description of the Crimes
Mijanovic pleaded guilty to two counts of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Over a period of six months, from August 2021 to January 2022, he committed a total of six armed robberies and one attempted armed robbery. His victims were employees of restaurants, convenience stores, and gas stations in the Wilmington area of Los Angeles, as well as in San Pedro and Torrance.
Background Information
Location of the Crimes
The crimes took place in the South Bay area of Los Angeles County, specifically in the neighborhoods of Wilmington, San Pedro, and Torrance.
Timeline of the Crime Spree
Mijanovic’s crime spree lasted for six months, from August 2021 to January 2022.
Types of Businesses Targeted
During his spree, Mijanovic targeted a variety of businesses, including restaurants, convenience stores, and gas stations.
Sentencing and Restitution
Length of Prison Sentence
Stevo Mijanovic was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for his crimes.
Amount of Restitution Ordered
In addition to his prison sentence, Mijanovic was ordered to pay $2,733 in restitution to his victims.
Judge’s Comments
During the sentencing hearing, Judge R. Gary Klausner condemned Mijanovic’s actions and emphasized the seriousness of his crimes. The judge expressed concern for the well-being of the victims and their families, stating that the impact of Mijanovic’s actions would be long-lasting.
Defendant’s Guilty Plea
Date of Guilty Plea
Mijanovic pleaded guilty to the charges on March 6.
Charges Pleaded Guilty To
Mijanovic pleaded guilty to two counts of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
Description of the Robberies
Number of Robberies
Mijanovic committed a total of six armed robberies and one attempted armed robbery.
Locations of Robberies
The robberies took place in the neighborhoods of Wilmington, San Pedro, and Torrance in the South Bay area of Los Angeles County.
Methods Used by the Defendant
Mijanovic used fear and intimidation to carry out his robberies. He would enter the businesses, brandish what appeared to be a firearm, and demand money from the victims.
Impact on Victims
Statements from Victims
The victims of Mijanovic’s crimes provided statements detailing the fear and trauma they experienced during the robberies. Their statements highlighted the emotional and psychological toll that the crimes had on them and their families.
Psychological and Emotional Effects
The robberies had significant psychological and emotional effects on the victims. Many reported experiencing anxiety, fear, and sleep disturbances following the incidents. Some victims also reported struggling with feelings of vulnerability and a loss of trust in others.
Law Enforcement Investigation
Involvement of FBI
The FBI played a crucial role in investigating Mijanovic’s crimes. Their involvement helped gather evidence and ensure that Mijanovic was brought to justice.
Collaboration with Los Angeles Police Department
The Los Angeles Police Department collaborated with the FBI in the investigation. Their joint efforts allowed for a comprehensive investigation and successful prosecution of the case.
Prosecution of the Case
Prosecuting Attorney
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chou.
Role of Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chou
Jennifer Chou played a pivotal role in prosecuting the case against Stevo Mijanovic. Her expertise and dedication to seeking justice for the victims ensured a strong case against the defendant.
Contact Information
Public Information Officer
For further information or inquiries regarding this case, you can contact Ciaran McEvoy, the Public Information Officer for the Central District of California.
Phone and Email Contact
You can reach Ciaran McEvoy at (213) 894-4465 or via email at ciaran.mcevoy@usdoj.gov.
Related Content
Other Press Releases
To access other press releases from the Central District of California, you can visit the official website of the Department of Justice.
Similar Cases Prosecuted by the Office of the U.S. Attorney
The Office of the U.S. Attorney has prosecuted similar cases involving armed robberies and violent crimes. For more information on these cases, you can refer to their official website or contact the Public Information Officer.