Full Notification

On Monday, November 4, 2019, at about 1957 hours, Santa Maria Police Officers responded to the area of W. Betteravia Road and Thornburg Street to a reported robbery. During their investigation, officers were told by the victim that he was approached by a male suspect, who demanded money. The suspect told the victim he had a gun and threatened to use it if needed.

Fearing for his safety, the victim gave the suspect his money. The suspect fled the scene, last seen running northbound on Thornburg. Assisting officers began to check the surrounding area, at which time an alert officer saw a subject matching the suspect's description. The subject, later identified as 19 year old Santa Maria resident Martin Montez De Oca, was detained by the officer. He was subsequently identified as the robbery suspect by a witness. It was also determined De Oca did not actually possess a handgun during the commission of this crime, but rather led the victim to believe he had one and was willing to use it.

De Oca was transported and booked into the Santa Barbara County Jail on one count of felony robbery with bail set at $100,00.00.

Prepared by: Lt. Terry A. Flaa