Houston man found guilty of armed robberies at fast food restaurants

A Houston man has been found guilty in a series of violent robberies at fast food restaurants and convenience stores.

Caleb Pickens, 25, was found guilty after a four-day trial and nearly three hours of jury deliberation.

Pickens became a target of law enforcement after he committed a series of armed robberies in January, often targeting McDonald’s locations and threatening those who got in his way with a pistol.

In several cases, Pickens even pointed guns at his victims’ heads, backs and stomachs as he demanded money. He also once fired a gun at a microwave oven in a McDonald’s.

After receiving his ill-gotten money, Pickens evacuated in a stolen black Cheverolet Tahoe, using a pair of scissors wedged in the key slot to start the ignition so he could escape.

After police began paying attention to Pickens’ vehicle, they caught him trying to rob a McDonald’s on Jan. 23 and he was arrested at the scene. When he was taken into custody, he had a handgun and was wearing a hoodie that matched the description of a hoodie he had worn during another armed robbery.

“Visiting McDonald’s has become an essential part of American life, providing families a familiar, comfortable place to gather for meals, where children enjoy Happy Meals and search for hidden toys,” said U.S. Attorney Alamdar S . Hamdani following the indictment verdict. “Pickens turned this idyllic scene into a violent nightmare as he robbed several locations and pointed his gun at his victims. This verdict will ensure that he is removed from Houston’s streets and his family for many years to come.”

Pickens will remain in custody until he is sentenced for the crimes, which is expected to occur on February 13, 2025. He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.