Two Southern California gang members have been sentenced to two years in state prison for the violent robbery of an elderly couple at a shopping mall in Thousand Oaks.
Details of the Charges and Guilty Plea
Corey Thomas, 18, of Los Angeles, and Jonathan Requejo, 18, of Inglewood, pleaded guilty to multiple felony charges, including second-degree robbery, elder abuse, and conspiracy. The incident occurred on June 27 at The Oaks shopping mall, where the defendants and three juvenile accomplices targeted and assaulted two elderly shoppers inside a Macy’s store.
The victims, both over 70 years old, suffered significant injuries during the attack. The assailants stole a Rolex watch, purse, and cell phone before fleeing the scene. When police attempted to stop their vehicle, a high-speed chase ensued on the 101 Freeway. During the pursuit, one suspect discarded a loaded firearm from the car.
Both Thomas and Requejo were identified as documented members of the Crips gang. In addition to the robbery charges, Thomas also pleaded guilty to illegal firearm possession and felony evading of law enforcement.
Ventura County Deputy District Attorney Hayley Moyer, who prosecuted the case, emphasized public safety’s importance and sent a strong message to violent offenders. The sentences include special allegations of great violence, vulnerable victims, and infliction of great bodily injury on elders.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about organized crime targeting vulnerable populations and the challenges law enforcement faces in combating such activities.
