Freddie Alexander Lopez, 24, of Santa Ana, pleaded guilty on July 18 to one federal count of interference with commerce by robbery, admitting to a string of knife‑ and replica‑gun‑point robberies and attempted robberies targeting restaurants across Orange County.
The FBI announced the plea, detailing a pattern of escalating violence that put multiple food‑service employees in danger and rattled communities across Southern California.
The Crime Spree Across Orange County
According to the plea agreement, interference with commerce by robbery—often referred to as Hobbs Act robbery—applies when a suspect uses force, violence, or intimidation to obstruct or affect commercial activity. Lopez admitted to doing exactly that at several restaurants:
- January 27, 2026 – Santa Ana: Lopez robbed a Subway restaurant with a knife, demanding cash from an employee.
- January 30, 2026 – Fountain Valley: He attempted another knife‑point robbery at a Subway location but did not obtain cash.
- January 30, 2026 – Santa Ana: Later that same day, he robbed a Yum Yum Donuts store with a knife, again demanding cash from the register.
- February 1, 2026 – Anaheim: Lopez attempted to rob a Subway restaurant using a replica firearm, threatening the employee while demanding money.
Investigators say Lopez consistently used weapons, intimidation, and threats of violence to force employees to hand over cash or attempt to do so. These incidents occurred during business hours, directly targeting frontline workers who had little ability to defend themselves.
Arrest and Federal Charges
Santa Ana Police arrested Lopez on February 6, 2026, during a traffic stop involving a vehicle believed to be connected to the robberies. Officers recovered a handgun (later determined to be a replica), a knife, a mask, and glasses matching those used in the crimes…