Lorenzo E. Roscoe, Armed Robbery, Virginia 2023

Norfolk Man Pleads Guilty to String of Armed Robberies

A Norfolk man has admitted to participating in a string of armed robberies in Hampton Roads, leaving residents on edge and local businesses shaken.

Lorenzo E. Roscoe, 30, pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and brandishing a firearm during a robbery, according to court documents. The charges stem from a series of armed robberies that occurred at multiple locations in Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Portsmouth.

The string of robberies targeted several convenience stores, including two Dollar General stores, two 7-Eleven stores, and one Family Dollar store. Roscoe's guilty plea marks a significant milestone in the investigation and prosecution of these crimes.

Roscoe is facing a mandatory minimum sentence of 7 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life when he is sentenced on September 6. While actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties, the severity of the charges against Roscoe underscores the gravity of his actions.

A federal district court judge will ultimately determine the sentence, taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia and the FBI's Norfolk Field Office have been leading the investigation, with Assistant U.S. Attorney William D. Muhr prosecuting the case.

The guilty plea is a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in preventing and investigating crimes. Local residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the authorities, and businesses are urged to take steps to enhance their security measures.

Defendant Information:

Defendant: Lorenzo E. Roscoe

Criminal Charges: Hobbs Act robbery, brandishing a firearm during a robbery

City and State: Norfolk, Virginia

Exact Date: Not specified

Sentence or Outcome: Mandatory minimum sentence of 7 years in prison, maximum sentence of life

Related Court Documents and Information:

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:18-cr-57.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-edva/pr/man-admits-string-armed-robberies-hampton-roads