WASHINGTON, D.C. – A 67-year-old man from the District was sentenced to 50 months in prison for his role in a series of armed robberies targeting fast-food establishments in Northeast Washington. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro announced the sentencing of Alvin Ponson today in U.S. District Court.
Ponson, who pleaded guilty on May 29, was charged with interference with interstate commerce by robbery under the Hobbs Act. Along with the prison sentence, Judge Tanya Chutkan ordered Ponson to undergo three years of supervised release. Federal prosecutors had sought a longer sentence of 87 months, highlighting the seriousness of Ponson’s actions.
According to court documents, Ponson’s criminal activities began on January 26, 2026, when he entered a Chipotle restaurant located on the 2300 block of Washington Place NE. Armed with a black handgun, Ponson demanded that a cashier open the register, but the cashier refused, prompting him to leave empty-handed. Shortly after, he entered the neighboring Jersey Mike’s hoagie shop, where he initially pretended to be picking up an order. However, when the cashier returned, Ponson brandished his firearm, threatening staff and demanding cash, which he successfully obtained before fleeing towards the Rhode Island-Brentwood Metro Station.
The investigation into Ponson’s crimes was conducted by the Metropolitan Police Department and the Washington Metro Transit Police, with significant assistance from the FBI’s Washington Field Office. The prosecution was led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Helfand.
This case underscores ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat violent crime in the District, particularly in busy neighborhoods where residents and visitors frequent local businesses. Authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help enhance community safety.
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