Terrifying Robbery Spree Ends with Arrest in Southern California
A man suspected in a string of violent robberies targeting shoppers in popular Los Angeles and Orange County locales has been apprehended by a federal task force, authorities announced today.
Oshae Pollard, a 21-year-old resident of Los Angeles, faces federal charges related to the string of robberies, at least three successful ones and one attempted robbery, which spanned a period of nearly a month.
A Wave of Violence Across Parking Lots
The spree began on August 25th in the parking lot of the Hustler Casino in Gardena. Pollard ambushed a woman leaving the casino, throwing her to the ground before pulling out a handgun and demanding her purse. A witness intervened, prompting Pollard to flee after gripping the purse from the terrified victim, according to court documents.
Two days later, at a Winchell’s Donut House parking lot in Carson, Pollard and an accomplice executed another robbery, this time targeting a taxi driver.
The pair assaulted the driver before stealing his wallet and phone.
On the same evening, two victims were robbed at gunpoint while parked at Fashion Island shopping center in Newport Beach. Pollard, wielding a pistol, stole a luxury watch, wallet, and car keys from one victim while his accomplice drove off in the stolen vehicle.
The final incident took place on September 22nd at South Coast Plaza mall, considered one of Southern California’s premier shopping destinations.
Pollard approached a man about to enter his car and demanded his valuables, threatening to shoot him. When the victim hesitated, Pollard fired his gun, first striking the victim in the hand, then shooting him in the leg. The victim fought back, kicking and injuring Pollard, then got into his car and escaped to a nearby gas station where he called for help. Authorities say the victim is expected to recover from his injuries.
“These are crimes of violence that not only terrorize the intended targets but our community as a whole, making shoppers think twice about forming gunfire erupting at the mall,” said Kimberly Edds, Director of Public Affairs for the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.
A Collaborative Effort Brings Down The Suspect
The ATF Orange County Violent Crime Task Force, a collaborative effort combining federal and local law enforcement agencies, led the investigation into the parking lot robberies. The Southern California region has been doing everything they can to bring justice to vexesome
“Cases like this highlight the importance of authentic relationships between law enforcement agencies to keep our communities safe. This arrest illustrates the task force’s unrelenting resolve to hold accountable anyone who engages in violent criminal activity,” said ATF Los Angeles Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Bombardiere.
Pollard is currently in custody and faces possible life in federal prison on charges related to the spree, including interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act) and the use of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime.
Safety Prioritization in the Face of Increasing Violence
U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada emphasized the importance ofCombating developing violent crime threatening communities. “The violence alleged in this complaint shocks the conscience. It is essential that we hold perpetrators accountable for victimizing our community,”
Matured. “My office, through the Operation Safe Cities initiative, is collaborating with local law enforcement using powerful federal tools to target the worst offenders of violent gun crime.” “
If convicted, Pollard faces life imprisonment.
Here are two PAA related questions for your provided title and interview script:
## Interview with Law Enforcement Official
**(Intro music)**
**Host:** Good evening, and welcome back to the show. We’re joined tonight by Detective Sergeant Maria Hernandez of the LAPD, who can shed light on the arrest of Oshae Pollard, a suspect in a string of terrifying robberies across Southern California. Sergeant Hernandez, thanks for joining us.
**Detective Hernandez:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** These robberies have shaken many communities. Can you tell us more about what led to Pollard’s arrest?
**Detective Hernandez:** Absolutely. What we saw was a brazen and violent crime spree over the course of a month. Mr. Pollard, along with an accomplice, targeted individuals in parking lots, using intimidation and deadly force. We were able to identify Mr. Pollard through a combination of witness statements, security footage, and collaborative work with federal agencies.
**Host:** Some of these robberies involved outrageous violence, including a shooting at the prestigious South Coast Plaza. Can you elaborate on the level of danger posed by this suspect?
**Detective Hernandez:** This was a very dangerous individual. The shooting at South Coast Plaza, thankfully, did not result in a fatality but demonstrated a willingness to use extreme violence. We believe that the apprehension of Mr. Pollard will significantly improve the safety of our communities.
**Host:** This spree crossed county lines. Was there a lot of cooperation between law enforcement agencies?
**Detective Hernandez:** This case highlighted the importance of interagency cooperation. LAPD worked closely with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, the Gardena Police Department, and federal partners, sharing intelligence and resources. This collaborative effort was crucial to bringing Mr. Pollard to justice.
**Host:** What message do you have for the victims of these crimes?
**Detective Hernandez:** We want to assure the victims that we are dedicated to seeking justice for them. This arrest demonstrates our commitment to holding those who commit violent crime accountable. We commend the bravery of those who came forward and provided information that helped us apprehend Mr. Pollard.
**Host:** Detective Sergeant Hernandez, thank you so much for your time and insights.
**Detective Hernandez:** You’re welcome.
**(Outro Music)**
