Two Men Arrested for Highway Robberies Targeting Casino Winners in California

Juan Gabriel Gonzalez, 22, and Dereck Nathan Lopez, 21, were arrested and face multiple charges related to a series of violent robberies targeting casino patrons in California.

• The duo operated by hanging around casinos, identifying people who had won several thousand dollars.

• They would track their victims after they left the casino, often robbing them at gunpoint on nearby highways.

• Victims were forced to hand over cash and casino chips, which the robbers later cashed in at casinos.

• One woman was robbed of $21,000 in a single incident; the pair committed about 15 robberies overall.

• The robbers had accomplices aiding their crimes.

• Authorities estimate the total stolen casino winnings to be at least $130,000.

• Lopez was found in possession of a firearm and ammunition, worsening his charges since he is prohibited from owning weapons.

• If convicted, Gonzalez and Lopez could face up to life imprisonment.