A Coachella man nicknamed “Lil Gangster” has been been charged in 12 separate armed robberies in the Coachella Valley, reports the Desert Sun. During a span of eight months, he is accused of robbing gas stations, jewelry stores, an auto parts store, and even a Food 4 Less.
Moises Garcia, who goes by the nickname “Lil Gangster” and is a documented member of the Coachella gang Varrio Coachella Rifa, would pull a gun on the staff of the business, then grab cash or jewelry or both. He is accused of twelve robberies, which include three locations – a travel stop and two jewelry stores – that police say he robbed twice.
Garcia was arrested in November when an off-duty police officer, who was filling his tires up with air at a Circle K, followed him after he allegedly robbed the convenience store. The officer was able to get a good look at Garcia and his getaway driver, Alex Ceballo – who were then both arrested a couple days later.
According to a report by the newspaper in 2016, Varrios Coachella Rifa has approximately 340 members, aggressively recruits children by offering protection, and thrives as many witnesses are afraid to testify against them.
Read more at the Desert Sun.
