Queens, New York — A man convicted in the brutal killing of a beloved Queens pawn shop owner has been sentenced to 25 years to life in prison, bringing a dramatic courtroom conclusion to a case that shocked New York City with its violence and cruelty.
Brutal Attack Inside Queens Pawn Shop
According to the Queens District Attorney’s Office, Rodolfo Lopez-Portillo, 52, carried out the deadly attack inside Global Pawn Shop on March 28, 2022.
Prosecutors said Lopez-Portillo entered the Hollis business around 1 p.m., wearing a black face mask, black gloves, and sunglasses. He initially appeared to be a customer, selling two wristwatches to shop owner Arasb Shoughi, 60, in exchange for cash.
Authorities said the situation turned deadly when Shoughi turned his back to place the watches into a display case.
That was when Lopez-Portillo allegedly launched a violent assault, repeatedly striking the shop owner until he collapsed to the floor bleeding heavily.
Prosecutors Describe Horrific Scene
Investigators said the attack became even more disturbing after the victim was incapacitated.
According to prosecutors, Lopez-Portillo allegedly searched the back of the store for valuables, stealing coins and jewelry before removing a ring from Shoughi’s finger as he lay dying.
Authorities said the attacker then continued beating the victim until he became motionless.
When another woman reportedly entered the store during the incident, prosecutors said Lopez-Portillo struck Shoughi several more times in the head before fleeing the scene.
The injuries were reportedly so severe that responding officers initially believed the victim had been shot.
Victim Later Died from Injuries
Following the attack, Shoughi — also known as Ross — was hospitalized with catastrophic head and brain injuries.
He ultimately died on April 17, 2022, weeks after the violent robbery.
His death devastated family members and members of the local community who described him as a deeply caring and positive person.
“Ross was full of life; he radiated positivity, joy and love,” his family wrote on a fundraising page.
“He went above and beyond to make those he loved know he was there for them, never expecting anything in return. His loss is an unfathomable tragedy that his loved ones and community will struggle with for years to come.”
Suspect Fled Before Capture
After the attack, authorities said Lopez-Portillo fled to Baltimore, where he remained for approximately two weeks before being captured.
Investigators later arrested him at a Greyhound bus station, where police allegedly discovered coins in his suitcase linked to Global Pawn Shop.
Last month, Lopez-Portillo was convicted on multiple charges, including:
- Murder
- Robbery
- Criminal possession of a weapon
On Monday, a Queens judge officially sentenced him to 25 years to life behind bars.
“Nothing can undo what happened, but we hope today’s sentence … provides a measure of solace to Mr. Shoughi’s loved ones,” Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said in a statement.
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Defense Plans to Appeal Conviction
Despite the conviction and sentencing, Lopez-Portillo’s attorney said the legal fight is not over.
Defense lawyer Joseph Amsel told reporters his client plans to appeal the verdict and believes mistakes during the trial may have unfairly impacted the outcome.
“And I think that there is a very significant chance that the conviction will be reversed on appeal,” Amsel said.
“He maintains his innocence,” he added.
The case remains one of the more shocking robbery-related killings in Queens in recent years, with the violent details leaving lasting scars on the victim’s family and community.
What are your thoughts on this shocking case and the sentence handed down by the court? Share your opinion respectfully in the comments below.
