Rental car agreement leads to arrest of man accused of holding up Bay Area gas stations at gunpoint: HCSO

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office says it has arrested a man accused of robbing several gas stations at gunpoint. 

Deputies say Ian Charles Gasperson, 29, was arrested on Sunday afternoon in connection with the robberies. 

Gas station robberies

The backstory:

On Saturday, deputies said they responded to multiple calls reporting an individual robbing several gas stations at gunpoint, including:

  • 7-Eleven at 18902 N. Dale Mabry Hwy
  • Circle K at 6211 N. Dale Mabry Hwy
  • Circle K at Race Track Rd and Tampa Rd in Pinellas County
HCSO says it arrested a man accused of robbing several gas stations at gunpoint. Image is courtesy of HCSO.

HCSO says it arrested a man accused of robbing several gas stations at gunpoint. Image is courtesy of HCSO. 

After detectives said they figured out that the vehicle linked to the crimes was a rental car, they contacted the rental company and identified Gasperson as the person who rented the vehicle. 

According to HCSO, one of Gasperson’s acquaintances looked at multiple calls reporting an individual robbing several gas stations at gunpoint.

Deputies added that a search of the vehicle uncovered evidence directly linking Gasperson to the crimes. 

Ian Gasperson mugshot courtesy of HCSO.

Ian Gasperson mugshot courtesy of HCSO. 

Gasperson has been charged with two counts of robbery with a firearm, possession of controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and introduction of contraband into a detention facility. 

HCSO says the investigation is still active.

What they're saying:

"I am incredibly proud of our detectives for their quick actions in ensuring this dangerous individual was taken into custody," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "At HCSO, we are committed to protecting our businesses and community. Let this serve as a clear reminder that violence has no place here, and those who commit such acts will be held accountable."

Editor's Note: Initially, HCSO reported that Gasperson was charged with  burglary of an unoccupied structure, two counts of burglary of an unoccupied conveyance, six counts of attempted burglary of an unoccupied conveyance, two counts of petit theft ($100-$750), possession of Alprazolam, possession of cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia, but has since issued a correction. 

The Source: This story was written with information provided by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. 

Hillsborough CountyCrime and Public Safety