Jason M. Frierson U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the District of Nevada
A Mexican national residing in Las Vegas has appeared in court following allegations of committing four armed robberies using a privately made firearm. Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada stated, "The defendant is accused of committing a spree of violent armed robberies over a one-week period." Fahami emphasized that violent crime is not acceptable in the community and expressed gratitude to federal and local law enforcement partners for their efforts.
Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division remarked, "Today’s indictment should send a clear message that the FBI and our partners will not tolerate this type of violent activity." He noted that the suspect, who was illegally in the country, committed bold acts that endangered citizens. The FBI plans to continue working with law enforcement to prevent prohibited individuals from accessing firearms.
According to the indictment and court statements, Jose Manuel Arce-Martinez, 38, unlawfully residing in the U.S., allegedly carried out these crimes between January 21 and January 26, 2025. The charges include using a privately made subcompact .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol during each robbery to threaten employees while stealing money and personal items such as cell phones, jewelry, clothing, and identification documents.
Arce-Martinez faces multiple charges: four counts of interference with commerce by robbery, four counts of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts related to being a prohibited person possessing firearms or ammunition. A jury trial is scheduled before Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon on May 19, 2025.
If found guilty, Arce-Martinez could face life imprisonment. Sentencing will be determined by considering various guidelines and statutory factors. The investigation was conducted by the FBI alongside the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department with Assistant United States Attorney Dan Cowhig prosecuting.
For those wishing to report federal crimes or threats can contact the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov.
It is important to note that an indictment only contains allegations; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court.
