Posted on 04/28/2005 4:29:02 AM PDT by tuffydoodle
Undercover Investigation Nabs Self-Described Pastor
POSTED: 6:13 pm CDT April 27, 2005 UPDATED: 6:45 pm CDT April 27, 2005
GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas -- A Grand Prairie man who calls himself a pastor was jailed Wednesday after a raid on his church, which doubles as an auto-parts store. Exterior signs at the location also promote help with immigration and legal problems.
Investigators said Richard Roblez also operated a fraudulent bail bond business from the same location. Dallas County sheriff's deputies received complaints from at least two people who claimed to be victims of the phony bail bond service.
Deputies raided Roblez's businesses after a weeks-long undercover investigation. After the raid, investigators said more victims could be identified.
Maria Ledezma paid Roblez $1,700 to bond her brother out of jail. She received only promises from Roblez, she said.
"He kept like that for about three weeks, so we later decided that he wasn't going do anything," Ledezma said.
Ledezma paid $1,000 to a legitimate bondsman, who secured her brother's release the same day.
An undercover officer received a similar promise of help with a jail bond from Roblez.
After deputies raided the businesses, Roblez maintained his innocence.
"I'm innocent of all the charges," he said as he was led away by deputies. "I don't even know why I'm going to jail here. I'm a pastor here at Temple Emanuel. I don't see anything illegal about recommending an attorney or recommending a bonding company."
Deputies said the auto-parts business also raised suspicions among investigators.
Richard Roblez = Al Sharpton?
LOL
That guy had a heck of a list of jobs: Pastor, auto parts store owner, bail bondsman, immigration help, etc.
That reminds me of a store I saw once in Granbury, Texas. It said "So and so's Perfume and Janitorial Supplies."
Church
Auto parts
Immigration Consulation
(Fake) Bail Bonds
He's a busy, busy man.
That's right, here at Temple Emanuel, you're one stop shop, blessings, batteries, bonds and visas.. all under one roof...
He should consider opening a used car lot as well.
you're your one stop shop, blessings, batteries, bonds and visas.. all under one roof...
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