Federal Authorities Arrest Suspected Gunman in Luxury Car Robberies at South Coast Plaza and Fashion Island – Orange County Register

Arrest of Suspected Gunman Linked to Series of Armed Robberies in Southern California

In a shocking series of events that unfolded in upscale shopping areas of Southern California, a 21-year-old man from South Los Angeles, identified as Oshae Pollard, has been arrested in connection with multiple armed robberies and violent assaults. The incidents, which occurred between late August and late September, targeted unsuspecting victims in parking lots of high-end shopping centers, including South Coast Plaza and Fashion Island.

The Crime Spree

According to a law enforcement affidavit, Pollard is suspected of committing at least three armed robberies and one attempted armed robbery across Orange and Los Angeles counties. The crimes were characterized by their brazen nature, with Pollard allegedly preying on individuals who appeared affluent, often wearing expensive watches and driving luxury vehicles.

The first reported incident took place on August 25 at the Hustler Casino in Gardena. Pollard approached a woman in the parking lot, pushed her to the ground, and attempted to steal her purse. In a terrifying escalation, he brandished a black semi-automatic pistol and struck her in the mouth with the barrel, breaking her teeth. He threatened her life, warning that he would kill her if she screamed. After a witness intervened, Pollard fled with the victim’s money, estimated to be between $1,000 and $2,000.

Escalation of Violence

The following hours saw Pollard involved in further violent encounters. In a separate incident that same night, he and an accomplice targeted a taxi driver at Winchell’s Donut House in Carson. The driver was threatened with a gun, beaten, and ultimately robbed of his wallet and cell phone, valued at approximately $560.

The crime spree continued at Fashion Island in Newport Beach, where Pollard and another suspect approached a man standing next to his luxury vehicles—a Rolls-Royce and a Ferrari. Pollard allegedly pointed a gun at the Rolls-Royce owner, demanding cash and valuables. The victim, fearing for his life, surrendered his Audemars Piguet watch and other belongings, totaling around $44,000. As the suspects fled, one fired a shot at the Ferrari driver, narrowly missing him.

The South Coast Plaza Incident

On September 22, the violence reached a new level when Pollard confronted a man getting into his Lamborghini SUV at South Coast Plaza. He threatened the victim, demanding his watch and ring while firing shots that struck the victim in the hand and thigh. In a desperate struggle, the victim fought back, managing to kick Pollard and escape in his vehicle.

Investigative Breakthrough

The investigation into Pollard’s activities gained momentum when authorities tracked his phone to each of the crime scenes. A significant breakthrough occurred on October 16 when Irvine police stopped Pollard for driving without a rear license plate. During the stop, they discovered a loaded Glock pistol in his vehicle, which matched the shell casings found at the robbery scenes.

Further investigation revealed that Pollard had been posting on social media while in possession of stolen items, including the luxury watch taken during the Fashion Island robbery. His Instagram posts featured him wearing a metal bracelet that matched one seen on a suspect during the donut shop robbery.

Legal Consequences

Pollard now faces serious charges, including interference with commerce by robbery under the Hobbs Act and the use of a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime. If convicted on all counts, he could face a maximum sentence of life in prison. The case is being handled by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Orange County Violent Crime Task Force, which has been instrumental in piecing together the evidence against him.

Conclusion

The arrest of Oshae Pollard marks a significant development in the fight against violent crime in Southern California. His alleged actions have not only instilled fear in the communities he targeted but also highlighted the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing armed robbery and gun violence. As the legal proceedings unfold, the victims of these heinous acts can only hope for justice and a sense of safety restored in their neighborhoods.