KINGS COUNTY, Calif. (March 21, 2025) – A nearly year-long investigation into a theft at a Taco vendor stand in Kings County has led to the arrest of Ruben Rocha, a 35-year-old Porterville man, the Kings County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) reported.
On May 19, 2024, Rocha allegedly tried to sell a watch to an employee at a Taco stand located near 17th Ave and Jersey. When the employee declined the offer, Rocha reportedly opened the cash register, stole a significant amount of money, and fled the scene in a vehicle.
A KCSO deputy began investigating the crime and obtained surveillance footage showing the vehicle used in the theft. The footage helped investigators identify Rocha as the suspect.
On June 11, 2024, the investigation led authorities to a woman who is an associate of Rocha at the Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino. Although the woman denied any involvement in the theft, she was arrested on outstanding warrants and booked into the Kings County Jail.
Her arrest provided authorities with further evidence, which allowed them to secure a search warrant, ultimately identifying Rocha as the primary suspect.
An arrest warrant was issued for Rocha on February 11, 2025, and he was arrested on Sunday by Porterville Police. Rocha is now in custody at the Kings County Jail, facing felony charges, including possession of stolen property, grand theft, and conspiracy.
The woman arrested last year is being referred to the Kings County District Attorney’s Office for potential prosecution regarding her involvement in the theft. The investigation is ongoing.
