A Tampa man has pleaded guilty to robbing a gas station at gunpoint, firing a shot during the crime and faces at least a decade in federal prison.
A Tampa man has pleaded guilty to robbing a gas station at gunpoint and discharging a firearm during the incident, federal authorities said.
Rafael Jimenez, 31, admitted guilt to one count of Hobbs Act robbery, one count of possession and discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence, and one count of possession of ammunition by a convicted felon in a U.S. District Court in the Middle District of Florida. His sentencing hearing is set for April 23, 2026, and he faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison.
Court records show that on March 8, 2025, Jimenez entered a gas station in Tampa, brandished a firearm while demanding money, and then fired a shot that struck the ground behind the store clerk. Surveillance footage later helped authorities identify him as the suspect. Investigators also recovered evidence from Jimenez’s trash, including a ski mask, gloves and cigarettes matching those seen during the robbery.
Jimenez stole more than $600 in cash and cigarettes during the robbery. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in coordination with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida.
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