South American charged with $1 million watch robbery in Beverly Hills; connection to gun of notorious LAPD ex-cop

Federal charges filed after armed robbery at Beverly Wilshire Hotel

Two South American nationals believed to be part of a “crime tourism” group were charged in federal court on August 13 in connection with the armed robbery of a $1 million watch in Beverly Hills. The suspects were also linked to a firearm registered to former Los Angeles police officer Christopher Dorner, notorious for his deadly 2013 shooting spree.

Jamer Mauricio Sepulveda Salazar, 21, of Colombia, is charged with obstruction of commerce by robbery under the Hobbs Act and possession of a weapon in furtherance of a crime of violence. Jesus Eduardo Padron Rojas, 19, of Venezuela, is charged with conspiracy to commit robbery under the Hobbs Act.

Both men are currently in custody and made their first court appearance today. Sepulveda’s arraignment is scheduled for September 3, and Padron’s is scheduled for September 19 in U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

The incident occurred on August 7, while the victim was dining on the patio of the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, accompanied by his wife and daughters. According to the complaint, a suspect approached the victim, brandished a black semi-automatic pistol, loaded a round, and then demanded the victim’s Patek Philippe watch, valued at $1 million. A second suspect then removed the watch from the victim’s wrist, and both suspects fled in a blue Toyota Corolla, allegedly driven by Sepulveda.

Three days later, officers executed a search warrant on an Airbnb linked to the group. During the search, a handgun was found in a bedroom registered to Christopher Dorner, the former LAPD officer who died in an armed robbery in 2013 after a series of murders. Later that same day, officers stopped a Chevrolet Equinox reportedly linked to another armed robbery in Beverly Hills on August 5 in which a $30,000 Rolex was stolen. Sepulveda and Padron were identified in the vehicle during the search.

“This case underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting our community from organized crime gangs that threaten public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada. “Law enforcement’s swift action in apprehending these suspects prevented further harm, and we will continue to hold those who commit violent crimes accountable.”

The charges against Sepulveda could result in a maximum sentence of life in federal prison, while Padron faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, the Beverly Hills Police Department and the Blythe Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jena A. MacCabe and Kevin J. Butler of the Violent and Organized Crime Section are prosecuting the case.

Both defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.