Yavapai County, Arizona – Recent Charges Following Federal Investigations

Four individuals have been charged after extensive federal investigations into labor practices unfold across two states. This development emerged earlier this week.

According to the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, agents from Homeland Security and various federal agencies executed raids in Arizona and Alabama on Tuesday. This action was part of a broader investigation into money laundering and labor exploitation. Notably, the Colt Grill restaurant locations in both states have been implicated.

The Arizona District Attorney General’s Office announced on Wednesday that the indictments involved four suspects: 33-year-old Lewis Pedro Rogel James, 29-year-old Iris Romero Molina, and the 61-year-old couple Robert and Brenda Croston from northern Arizona.

The federal complaint accuses the Crostons, Rogel James, and Romero Molina—who operate multiple Colt Grill locations—of orchestrating a scheme through a cleaning service named R&R AZ Cleaning, which allegedly functioned as a staffing solution for the restaurants. The indictment claims they hired undocumented workers, paid below minimum wage, and failed to compensate for overtime. Additionally, it states that they benefited financially from this arrangement while neglecting to pay necessary employment taxes.

All four defendants were taken into custody without incident on Tuesday. They face multiple charges, including conspiracy related to the transport and harboring of undocumented immigrants.

A statement from local officials expressed gratitude towards federal partners, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to shield communities from organized crime. It was remarked that this coordinated operation was crucial for the safety of Yavapai County residents.

During the restaurant raids, federal agents reported finding several undocumented immigrants who were arrested on immigration-related charges.

This case contributes to “Take Back America,” a national initiative by the Department of Justice aimed at addressing illegal immigration concerns.

The Colt Grill has locations in Cottonwood, Prescott Valley, Prescott, and Sedona, Arizona, and recently opened in Foley, Alabama. However, the restaurant has also issued a notice indicating that approximately 200 employees will be laid off.