Man Admits To Armed Robbery, 3 Carjackings In North County

SAN DIEGO, CA — A San Marcos man pleaded guilty Tuesday in federal court to robbing a smoke shop and carrying out three armed carjackings in November 2024, prosecutors said.

Brandon Ivan Padilla, 20, admitted using a firearm to threaten victims during each crime, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of California.

Prosecutors said Padilla robbed the American Smoke Shop in Escondido on Nov. 21, 2024, pointing a gun at a clerk and demanding cash. The clerk handed over $320. Officials said Padilla also threatened a customer at gunpoint and stole the victim's car keys and vehicle.

Padilla also admitted to two additional armed carjackings four days later in Escondido.

Padilla approached a motorist, brandished a firearm and demanded the victim's belongings, according to court documents. The victim have him his phone and car keys. Although he tried to take the car, the vehicle would not start.

Later that same day, Padilla approached another motorist, racked his gun and pointed it at the person's forehead and chest before forcing the victim out of a truck, according to court documents. The victim also gave his wallet to Padilla who then drove away in the vehicle.

Prosecutors said Padilla admitted in his plea agreement that he would have caused death or serious bodily harm if the victims had not complied.

Padilla is scheduled to be sentenced Aug. 7 before U.S. District Judge Janis L. Sammartino.