Plot to Lure Men From Clubs, Rob Them at Gunpoint: Suspect Identified

EAST AUSTIN, TX: Police have identified a suspect they believe robbed victims at gunpoint in a plot that involved two previously arrested accomplices luring victims from nightclub parking lots into their vehicle.

Francis Espinoza, 47, was arrested several weeks ago for luring men out of two nightclubs near Riverside Drive and into her vehicle, KVUE reported.

Police reported that during a stakeout, they witnessed Espinoza drive off with the men in her vehicle. The men later reported being driven to a secluded area near the 9000 block of FM 812, where they were robbed by one or several men. So far there have been four Hispanic male victims.

Police believe one of these robbers is Augustine Espinoza. He allegedly struck one of the victims, who was taken from Club Movida, in the head with a gun and knocking him to the ground. The suspect made off with the victim’s wallet and phone. Francies Espinoza was also seen picking up men from the parking lot of Club Carnaval on Elmont drive, KVUE reported.

A warrant has been issued for Augustine’s arrest for first degree felony aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon. His bond is set at $100,000.

Francis Espinoza and Francis Hernandez, 28, who accompanied Espinoza in the pickup vehicle, were both brought into custody police custody. Espinoza was arrested and charged with first-degree aggravated robbery. Police have not yet said if charges will be filed against Hernandez.

Kara Hester, 27, who goes to Club Carnaval to dance, told KVUE she is not surprised to hear about the robberies.

“You definitely need to watch out...It’s a little dicey, it’s a little risky to go in there...Just the kind of crowd that hangs out in there, it’s just really not that surprising,” she said.