A Houston man has been found guilty of a spree of violent robberies at fast food restaurants and convenience stores.
Caleb Pickens, 25, was found guilty after a trial that lasted four days and a jury deliberation that lasted just under three hours.
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Pickens came under the radar of law enforcement after he committed a series of armed robberies in January, often targeting McDonald’s locations and threatening those in his path with a pistol.
In several instances, Pickens even held guns at the heads, backs and stomachs of his victims as he demanded money. He also once fired a gun at a microwave oven inside of a McDonald’s.
After getting his ill-gotten funds, Pickens would evacuate in a stolen black Cheverolet Tahoe, using scissors jammed in the key slot to start the ignition so he could escape.
After police began paying attention to Pickens’ vehicle, they caught him as he attempted to rob a McDonalds on Jan. 23, and he was arrested at the scene. When he was taken into custody, he had a pistol and was wearing a hoodie that matched the description of one worn during a different armed robbery.
“Going to McDonald’s has become a quintessential part of American life, offering a familiar, convenient spot for families to come together for a meal, where kids feast on Happy Meals searching for hidden toys,” U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani said following the guilty verdict. “Pickens turned that idyllic scene into a violent nightmare when he robbed several locations and pointed his gun at his victims. This verdict will ensure that he is taken off Houston’s streets and away from its families for many years to come.”
Pickens will remain in custody until he is sentenced for the crimes, which is slated to take place on Feb. 13, 2025. He faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.