IHOP robber gets four years in prison

IHOP robber gets four years in prison

The second of three people convicted of robbing the IHOP restaurant in Boardman using a pellet gun is going to prison.

Angel M. Cruz II, 23, of Boardman, appeared before Judge R. Scott Krichbaum of Mahoning County Common Pleas Court Tuesday for sentencing on one count of robbery. He initially had been charged with aggravated robbery with a gun specification but pleaded to the robbery charge in a plea agreement with prosecutors.

The robbery charge carries a maximum sentence of eight years in prison.

Cruz has faced charges in the past for disorderly conduct twice, drug paraphernalia and possession of drugs. He has also, by order of the court, been treated for substance abuse.

Martin P. Desmond, an assistant county prosecutor, said the prosecutor’s office, in accordance with the plea agreement, recommended a three-year prison term. He said the prison time is needed because Cruz is likely to offend again.

Atty. James Gentile, representing Cruz, reminded the court that his client is a 2008 graduate of Boardman High School who became addicted to drugs. He said the drug use played a major factor in his client’s conduct.

“He was severely addicted to everything out there for a period of two to three years and that made him vulnerable to that call for this robbery,” said Gentile.

Judge Krichbaum ultimately rejected the three-year recommendation and sentenced Cruz to four years in prison. He is also serve three years on probation upon his release. Cruz will receive credit for the 154 days he has spent in the county jail.