Two Southern California men have pleaded guilty to a string of armed robberies that targeted casino patrons who had just won or cashed out large sums of money, federal prosecutors said. The robberies spanned several months and multiple casinos before investigators stepped in and brought the scheme to an end.
Case
Derek Nathan Lopez, 22, and Juan Gabriel Gonzalez, 23, both residents of South Gate, pleaded guilty Thursday in federal court to one count of interference with commerce by robbery. The charge stems from a series of armed robberies aimed at casino winners across Los Angeles County.
According to federal prosecutors, the two men carried out more than a dozen robberies and attempted robberies between May and December 2023.
Method
Prosecutors said Lopez and Gonzalez entered casinos using fake identities and spent time observing patrons. They focused on people who appeared to have won large amounts of money or who were preparing to cash in their casino chips.
Once a target was identified, the suspects followed the victim as they left the casino. The robberies often occurred on nearby freeways or onramps, where the suspects would pull alongside or block the victim’s vehicle.
Authorities said the men brandished firearms, smashed car windows, and demanded cash and valuables.
Targets
Court records show the suspects targeted several major casinos in Los Angeles County, including the Hustler Casino, Parkwest Bicycle Casino, and the Commerce Casino and Hotel.
In total, Lopez and Gonzalez admitted to committing at least 15 robberies and attempted robberies. At least three of those incidents occurred in the final month of their crime spree.
Losses
Federal prosecutors estimate the suspects stole approximately $274,000 in cash, casino chips, and personal property. Items taken during the robberies included designer bags, passports, and other valuables.
In one June 2023 incident, prosecutors said the pair stole $130,000 from two victims who had just left the Parkwest Bicycle Casino. The robbery occurred on the Florence Avenue onramp to the 710 Freeway in the city of Bell.
Incidents
Another robbery outlined in the plea agreements occurred in October 2023. Prosecutors said the suspects followed a man who had cashed out $11,000 in chips at the Hustler Casino in Gardena.
The victim was driving home when the suspects stopped him on the 110 Freeway onramp from Redondo Beach Boulevard. According to prosecutors, both men stood on either side of the vehicle while holding firearms and demanded cash.
They also ordered the victim to open the trunk, where they took an additional $1,050 in cash and golf clubs valued at about $6,000.
Evidence
In addition to admitting responsibility for the robberies, Lopez also acknowledged illegally possessing firearms and ammunition. Prosecutors said three firearms and more than 30 rounds of ammunition were found at his home during a search in December 2023.
Lopez was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to his criminal history, which included a grand theft conviction in San Bernardino County in November 2023.
Sentencing
Both Lopez and Gonzalez are scheduled to be sentenced in August. Federal sentencing guidelines will take into account the number of robberies, the use of firearms, and the total financial losses.
Prosecutors have not said what specific sentences they will seek.
Case Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Defendants | Derek Nathan Lopez, Juan Gabriel Gonzalez |
| Ages | 22 and 23 |
| Cities | South Gate, California |
| Crimes | Armed robberies of casino patrons |
| Timeframe | May to December 2023 |
| Amount Stolen | About $274,000 |
| Sentencing | Scheduled for August |
The case highlights ongoing concerns about organized robberies targeting casino patrons after they leave gaming floors. Federal authorities say the guilty pleas bring an end to a crime pattern that relied on surveillance, planning, and intimidation.
FAQs
Who pleaded guilty in the case?
Derek Nathan Lopez and Juan Gabriel Gonzalez.
What were they charged with?
Interference with commerce by robbery.
How many robberies were admitted?
At least 15 robberies and attempted robberies.
Which casinos were targeted?
Hustler, Parkwest Bicycle, and Commerce casinos.
When will sentencing occur?
Both men are scheduled for sentencing in August.
