Man accused of robbing Kendall GNC store arrested

Darrin Galarza, 31, accused of throwing manager to ground while escaping

KENDALL, Fla. – A man who robbed a vitamin store last month in Kendall was arrested Thursday, authorities said.

The robbery was reported March 30 at a GNC store at The Palms at Town & Country.

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According to an arrest report, Darrin Galarza, 31, was with a girl who appeared to be about 10 years old, when he approached the store manager and asked to see products that were located behind a locked plastic divider.

After he had the merchandise in his hands, he told the girl to walk out of the store, police said.

According to authorities, Galarza ran out of the store and the manager, Jennifer Alvarez, chased him.

Police said a struggle over the merchandise ensued and Galarza threw Alvarez to the ground, causing a cut on her right hand.

Police said Galarza dragged the girl into a newer-model Hyundai Sonata and drove away.

He was arrested Thursday at his home in Homestead on charges of strong-arm robbery and child neglect.


About the Author:

Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.