Previously deported illegal immigration He pleaded guilty Tuesday to a series of armed robberies at convenience stores in California, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California.

Jesús Soto-Parada, 27, from El Salvador, was arrested on June 13, 2024, while fleeing a robbery at a nearby 7-Eleven convenience store. Los AngelesA clerk hid their stolen cash in a hidden GPS device. The U.S. Justice Department said last year that Soto-Palada and an accomplice allegedly robbed stores in eight cities over a five-month period last year.

Soto-Palada was suspected of 11 thefts but admitted to committing seven of the alleged crimes between January and June 2024 in Los Angeles and Orange counties, authorities said.

Federal prosecutors noted that Soto-Palada pleaded guilty to eight felonies, including one count of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery and seven counts of robbery under the Hobbs Act. This federal law makes it a crime to rob or extort a business in a manner that interferes with commerce.

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On January 11, 2024, a suspect wearing a black hoodie attempted to rob Monroe Liquor. (Ministry of Justice)

Also available in Soto-Palada Multiple previous violations of immigration laws Before he committed the robberies, he was arrested by federal authorities in 2016 and 2022, according to federal prosecutors.

Authorities said Soto-Palada was arrested during a robbery spree in March 2024 and deported to El Salvador the following month. He later returned to the United States and reportedly continued committing robberies.

Previously deported illegal immigrant charged in California armed robbery spree: Justice Department

On January 11, 2024, surveillance video showed a second man wearing a black hoodie holding a gun while trying to rob Monroe Liquor. (Ministry of Justice)

Police were able to arrest Soto-Palada and his accomplice, Daniel Pavon, during their most recent robbery at a 7-Eleven on June 13, thanks to a hidden GPS device placed by the store clerk in the $250 they stole, allowing police to track their movements.

During the robbery, Soto-Palada, wearing a blue surgical mask and a black sweatshirt, emptied the register while Parvin aimed a black imitation handgun at the clerk, according to a person familiar with the robbery. criminal complaint.

On June 13, 2024, a male suspect wearing a mask and a black hoodie appeared to be armed with a firearm during a robbery at a 7-Eleven convenience store. (Ministry of Justice)

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In total, the suspects stole approximately $13,950 in cash and $7,415 in merchandise.

Soto-Palada is scheduled to be sentenced on April 15, 2026. Prosecutors said he could face up to 20 years in federal prison on each count.

Fox News’ Luis Casciano contributed to this report.