On August 5, 2015, at approximately 7:00 p.m., Pima County deputies, together with detectives, apprehended wanted bank robbery suspect Paul G. Alleva. The capture took place at the AM/PM convenience store at Irvington Road and Campbell Avenue.
While roaming the area in an attempt to locate the wanted suspect, a detective with the Robbery/Assault Unit noticed the suspect’s vehicle and advised patrol units in the area. When the suspect pulled into the AM/PM property, the detective proceeded with a high-risk stop procedure in order to prevent Alleva from entering the convenience store, possibly endangering other citizens. The detective was met by multiple patrol units and the situation was contained to the west side of the property.
Alleva refused to follow commands and stayed inside his vehicle. As a precaution, deputies evacuated the AM/PM store and cordoned off the perimeter of the gas station. With the law enforcement activity unfolding on the west side of a busy shopping area, a large number of people gathered in the adjacent parking lot to watch and film the unfolding event.
A SWAT Negotiator, who was also at the scene, was able to successfully negotiate Alleva’s peaceful surrender. Alleva was taken into custody without further incident. As deputies handcuffed the suspect, some in the nearby crowd applauded. No weapons were found on Alleva’s person or inside his vehicle.