Armed Robbery Suspect Pleads Guilty in Topeka Court
TOPEKA, KAN. – A shocking display of violence in the heart of Kansas has led to a guilty plea in a high-profile armed robbery case. Victor Alberto Arellano, 22, of Topeka, Kansas, pleaded guilty to two counts of armed robbery and two counts of brandishing a firearm during the armed robberies.
According to court documents, Arellano and co-defendant Javier Martinez robbed the Panderia Monterrey Bakery at 3145 S.E. 6th Avenue on August 28, 2019. Twenty-four hours later, the duo struck again, holding employees at gunpoint during a robbery at Poblanos Grille at 3935 S.E. 6th Avenue. Another co-defendant waited in the car to make a getaway.
The brazen robberies sent shockwaves through the community, leaving business owners and employees shaken. Arellano’s guilty plea is a significant step towards justice for the victims.
Arellano faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each robbery count. He could also face not less than seven years and a fine of up to $250,000 on each count of brandishing a firearm, to be served consecutively to the robbery counts and consecutively to each other.
The sentencing is set for November 24. Co-defendant Ernesto Negrete Jr. is set for sentencing on October 27, while co-defendant Javier Angel Martinez awaits trial.
U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister commended the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg Hough for their work on the case.
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Key Facts
- State: Kansas
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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