Who:
Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office
Investigative Operations Bureau
-Robbery Homicide Unit

Joshua Pena-Cedillo (Suspect – Arrested)
DOB: 6/25/1997
Address: 1229 Sedeeva Circle North, Clearwater
Charges: Aggravated Battery and Petit Theft

Mustafa Hashem (Victim – Injured)
DOB: 3/3/1975

What:
Detectives with the Robbery/Homicide Unit have arrested a Clearwater man for Aggravated Battery and Petit Theft.

When:
The crime occurred on November 2, 2019 at about 5:35 p.m.

Where:
The crime occurred at the Circle A Food Store located at 1201 Sunset Point Boulevard in unincorporated Clearwater.

Why/How:
Detectives assigned to the Robbery/Homicide Unit have arrested 22-year-old Joshua Pena-Cedillo for Aggravated Battery and Petit Theft.

Investigators say Pena went to the Circle A Food Store in unincorporated Clearwater on November 2, 2019. While wearing a large hooded winter coat with a gray face cover, he entered the store, selected several food items and concealed them in his coat. The victim attempted to stop Pena from leaving the store and a struggle ensued exposing Pena’s face.

Detectives say Pena produced a folding pocket knife and struck the victim in the head while the knife was closed. Pena fled the scene and was not located.

The victim was taken to the hospital where he was treated for a non-life threatening injury to his head.

According to investigators, the victim later recognized Pena and notified the sheriff’s office. Through various investigative techniques, detectives were able to identify Pena as the battery suspect.

Detectives charged Pena with Aggravated Battery and Petit Theft, however, Pena was already in-custody at the Pinellas County Jail. Pena was arrested on April 23, 2020 by the Clearwater Police Department for Animal Cruelty.

The investigation continues.

Booking photo: