Las Cruces Police arrest man for alleged robbery near bus stop

Las Cruces Police arrested a man who allegedly committed a robbery near a city bus stop early Friday evening.

James Ismael Padilla, 38, has been charged with one count of robbery. He also had an outstanding warrant from District Court.

Shortly after 6 p.m. Friday, April 24, Las Cruces Police were sent to investigate a robbery claim near a bust stop at the intersection of Solano Drive and Texas Avenue.

Police say a 57-year-old was sitting on a bench when he was approached by a man later identified as Padilla.

The victim said Padilla first asked for a cigarette and then allegedly began making threatening comments and references to a gang affiliation.

When the victim stood up, Padilla allegedly grabbed the 57-year-old man’s backpack from the bench and started walking away.

The victim retrieve got his backpack in exchange for $1.50 and Padilla left the area. The victim called police who found Padilla a short distance away.

Padilla was booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center with bond set at $10,000.