San Francisco, CA – A San Francisco chef has been arrested after police identified him as the suspect in three separate bank robberies that took place in the city on Wednesday, Sept. 10. Authorities say the 62-year-old suspect has a prior conviction for robbery in 2018.
Arrest and Robbery Details
San Francisco Police identified the suspect as 62-year-old Valentino Luchin. According to police, the first robbery occurred just after 12:00 p.m. at a bank on the 1100 block of Grant Avenue.
Officers reported that a man entered the bank, handed a note to an employee demanding money, and then left the premises without incident. Later in the day, two other banks in the Central District were robbed in a similar manner, prompting investigators to link all three incidents to a single suspect.
Luchin was later arrested on suspicion of robbery, attempted robbery, and second-degree robbery. He was booked into the San Francisco County Jail following his arrest.
Past Conviction: 2018 Orinda Bank Robbery
Luchin has a criminal history. In 2018, the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office reported that he pleaded guilty to robbing a Citibank in Orinda. During that incident, Luchin reportedly wore gloves and sunglasses, pointed a gun at a teller, and demanded large bills. He successfully left the bank with $18,000 before being arrested at his Lafayette home.
The DA’s office stated that he was sentenced to one year in county jail and received three years of probation for the 2018 offense.
Police Investigation and Identification
San Francisco police said the modus operandi in the recent robberies—passing notes to employees and threatening with a weapon—matched the suspect’s prior criminal methods. Surveillance footage and witness reports helped authorities identify Luchin as the suspect in all three September 10 robberies.
Police continue to investigate to determine if any additional charges could be filed related to the incidents.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Luchin now faces multiple charges, including:
- Robbery
- Attempted robbery
- Second-degree robbery
Officials say that further legal action will depend on ongoing investigations and any evidence recovered during the arrest.
Community Impact and Safety Reminder
While no injuries were reported during the September 10 robberies, police remind local residents and businesses to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity immediately. Law enforcement encourages following proper safety protocols when handling cash transactions.
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