Las Cruces Jury Convicts Man of Four Armed Robberies
A federal jury found Ruben Jose Trujillo guilty of multiple robberies and firearm offenses in Doña Ana County.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Crime — General
A federal jury has convicted a Las Cruces man of four armed robberies following a string of violent incidents across Doña Ana County in October 2024. The defendant, Ruben Jose Trujillo, remains in federal custody while awaiting sentencing.
Why it matters
The conviction addresses a series of high-profile retail robberies that put local employees and the public at significant risk. Trujillo faces a substantial prison term given the severity of the crimes and his history as a convicted felon.
A federal jury convicted Ruben Jose Trujillo on multiple charges, including four counts of firearm brandishing and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Trujillo faces a minimum of 31 years in prison for his crimes.
The players
Ruben Jose Trujillo
The 39-year-old Las Cruces man was found guilty of committing four armed robberies in Doña Ana County.
The details
Investigators successfully identified Trujillo by linking his distinct physical characteristics, including a limp and tattoos, observed in surveillance footage. Forensic testing on a firearm recovered from his residence confirmed its use during a Family Dollar robbery where an employee was grazed by a bullet.
Timeline
October 5, 2024: Trujillo robbed a Circle K store in Las Cruces.
October 21, 2024: Trujillo robbed a second Circle K location in Las Cruces.
October 27, 2024: The defendant robbed a local Subway restaurant.
October 28, 2024: Trujillo robbed a Family Dollar store in Vado.
October 29, 2024: Law enforcement arrested the suspect in Las Cruces.
Legal Context
This case follows federal prosecution patterns for retail crime under the Hobbs Act, which addresses interference with commerce through violence. Such convictions demonstrate the jurisdictional priority placed on protecting commercial entities from repeat violent offenders.
Residents and local business owners should be aware that the suspect has been removed from the community and remains in federal custody. The case underscores the active role federal agencies take in coordinating with local law enforcement to secure retail areas.
The takeaway
The successful identification and prosecution of the suspect relied heavily on detailed surveillance evidence that captured his unique physical characteristics. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of high-quality security systems in protecting local retail establishments.
Further reading
Find more updates on local crime reports in our dedicated regional coverage section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The United States Department of Justice.
