Rafael Jimenez, a 31-year-old Tampa resident, has pleaded guilty to charges stemming from a gas station robbery that took place in March 2025. The charges include Hobbs Act robbery, possession and discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence, and possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. Jimenez faces a minimum sentence of 10 years and could receive up to life in federal prison. His sentencing is scheduled for April 23, 2026.
According to court records, Jimenez entered the gas station armed with a firearm and demanded money from the clerk. During the incident, he fired his weapon toward the clerk, hitting the ground behind them. He then stole cigarettes and over $600 before leaving the scene.
Authorities identified Jimenez as the suspect after reviewing surveillance footage from days prior to the robbery that showed similarities between him and the perpetrator, including a distinctive tattoo. Items recovered from Jimenez’s trash—such as a ski mask, gloves, and cigarettes matching those taken during the robbery—further linked him to the crime. Additional surveillance video captured a vehicle similar to Jimenez’s near the scene around the time of the incident.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman is prosecuting it while Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky handles forfeiture proceedings.
United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe stated: “This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.” He added: “Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).”
