A man who spent time in federal prison after being arrested during Operation Gator Roll, a federal sweep of the Eastside gang in 2008, was sentenced to two years in state prison after pleading guilty to robbery last week. Roberto Amador Jr. was set to go to trial for allegedly stealing beer from a convenience store, but he entered a plea and was sentenced.
In January, police said Amador entered a store, took an 18-pack of beer and walked out, ignoring demands from the store clerk and two others to stop. The three followed him outside, and Amador allegedly fought to keep control of the beer. He was contacted by police shortly after.
After first denying the crime, Amador was confronted with the fact he was on video. He responded, “A criminal is gonna lie.”
Amador was one of 28 men who faced federal charges stemming from Operation Gator Roll. He pleaded to Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act conspiracy and received 40 months in federal prison.