SAN JUAN, PR—Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Leff, of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) San Juan Field Office, announced the arrest of LUIS RESTO CRUZ.

On October 17, 2018, a Federal grand jury charged LUIS RESTO CRUZ, age 28, from Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico, with Interference with Commerce by Threats or Violence in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951; Using, Brandishing, and Carrying a Weapon During and in relation to a Crime of Violence in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924 (c) (1) (A) (ii); and being a Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm: Convicted Felon in violation of Title 18 United States Code 922 (G) (1).

RESTO CRUZ is the alleged mastermind of an attempted robbery of a gold jewelry delivery from San Juan to Florida on July 13, 2018. During the incident, the driver of the delivery van was shot in the face and chest numerous times. The victim driver returned fire, striking two of the subjects.

If convicted RESTO CRUZ faces a potential penalty of up to 45 years of imprisonment.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Alexander L. Alum. It is being investigated by the FBI.

The public is reminded that criminal complaints and indictments contain only charges and are not evidence of guilt. Defendants are presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty.