Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell announced on June 1 that Gilbert Lara has been sentenced to 19 years in prison after pleading guilty to one count of kidnapping, a class two dangerous felony.
In October 2025, Lara entered a Cricket retail store in Glendale armed with a knife and demanded money from an employee. After taking cash from the register, he forced the victim into a back office and ordered her to open a safe. When she was unable to comply, Lara struck her in the face, causing an injury near her eye. He then ordered her to remain in the office while he fled. The victim reported fearing for her life during the incident.
Investigators identified Lara using video surveillance footage, license plate reader data, and cell phone records that placed him at the scene of the crime. A search of his residence later revealed clothing matching what he wore during the offense.
According to officials, Lara has a lengthy history of theft-related prior convictions and was on community supervision for armed robbery at the time this offense occurred.
“Crimes like this go far beyond theft. They involve violence, fear, and control. The defendant’s violent actions and threats caused unimaginable fear and trauma,” said County Attorney Rachel Mitchell. “This 19-year prison sentence holds him accountable for the harm he caused. We also commend the courage and resilience the victim showed throughout this case.”
