Feds Catch 7 Thieves Stealing $100M in Gold, Diamonds & Rubies in America’s Biggest Jewel Heist!

Federal authorities have announced the arrest of the individuals behind what is considered the largest jewelry theft in U.S. history. Seven suspects, dubbed the “Pacific Ocean’s Seven,” have been charged with stealing $100 million worth of gold, diamonds, luxury watches, and other valuables from a Brink’s armored truck in California in July 2022.

The elaborate heist took place at a rest stop when the suspects ambushed the truck, grabbing 73 bags filled with rare jewelry including emeralds, rubies, and diamonds. The cargo had been loaded onto the truck after a jewelry fair near San Francisco and was en route to a showcase near Los Angeles.

Bodycam footage shows the truck with bags of jewelry. LASD
Same brand as the one targeted in 2022. Gado via Getty Images
One-of-a-kind jewelry pieces, like those stolen, were recovered. agcreativelab – stock.adobe.com

The suspects, all from the Los Angeles area, reportedly made their getaway with the jewelry following the ambush. The FBI retrieved some stolen items during a recent search. The group faces serious federal charges, including conspiracy, theft, and interfering with commerce. If convicted, they could face decades in prison.

One suspect, Jazael Padilla Resto, is already incarcerated in Arizona for a separate charge. Several others are linked to additional heists involving electronics, including Samsung shipments and Apple AirTags.

  • Carlos Victor Mestanza Cercado, 31, Pasadena
  • Jazael Padilla Resto, 36, Boyle Heights
  • Pablo Raul Lugo Larroig, 41, Rialto
  • Victor Hugo Valencia Solorzano, 60, Los Angeles
  • Jorge Enrique Alban, 33, South LA
  • Jeson Nelon Presilla Flores, 42, Upland
  • Eduardo Macias Ibarra, 36, Westlake LA