Feds nab 7 thieves accused of stealing $100M worth of gold, diamonds, rubies and other bling in biggest jewel heist in US history
Federal prosecutors have announced the arrest of seven individuals in connection with the largest jewel heist in US history, likening the group to a real-life “Ocean’s Eleven” or more aptly, the “Pacific Ocean’s Seven.” The heist, which took place in July 2022, involved the theft of $100 million worth of gold, diamonds, high-end watches, and other valuable items from a Brink’s armored truck traveling through California.
The elaborate robbery took place following a gem and jewelry show near San Francisco, where the precious cargo was loaded onto the Brink’s truck. The thieves intercepted the truck at a rest stop and absconded with 73 bags containing rare, one-of-a-kind pieces such as diamonds, emeralds, and rubies.
After three years of investigation, FBI agents were able to recover some of the stolen loot while executing a search warrant. The suspects, all hailing from the Los Angeles area, now face charges that could result in up to 20 years in prison. One of the accused, Jazael Padilla Resto, is already serving time in an Arizona state prison for a separate breaking and entering charge.
In addition to the jewelry heist, several of the defendants are also implicated in other truck robberies, including intercepting shipments of Samsung electronics and Apple AirTags. The group faces a slew of conspiracy, theft, and robbery-related charges, with the possibility of lengthy prison sentences if convicted.
The seven defendants include Carlos Victor Mestanza Cercado, Jazael Padilla Resto, Pablo Raul Lugo Larroig, Victor Hugo Valencia Solorzano, Jorge Enrique Alban, Jeson Nelon Presilla Flores, and Eduardo Macias Ibarra. These individuals are accused of orchestrating a sophisticated and daring heist that captured the nation’s attention and set a new benchmark for jewel theft in the US.
