2 Arrested in Muggings at Irvine Spectrum
- Share via
IRVINE — Two teenagers accused of staging a series of armed muggings in the parking lot of the Irvine Spectrum were arrested by undercover Irvine police officers, who allegedly caught them in the act.
Police said Jonathon P. Tellez, 18, of Garden Grove, and a 17-year-old boy committed as many as 14 muggings at the entertainment complex since June 22. The pair were arrested late Wednesday on suspicion of seven thefts, and officials said the investigation is continuing.
Lt. Sam Allevato said the robberies usually occurred in the late evening and targeted young adults. The robbers would demand money from their victims’ wallets, with one assailant lifting up his jacket to expose a handgun.
“In a couple of them, the victims were told, ‘Do not go to the police, we know your address and we will come after you,’ ” Allevato said. “A couple of [victims] delayed in coming to us because they were scared.”
After receiving several robbery reports, an undercover team was sent out to find the robbers, Allevato said.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
