Friday, 7 August 2026, 5:17
A federal grand jury has indicted Tracy Mingo, the Atlanta-area man law enforcement nicknamed the "master of disguise," on charges that he robbed 10 businesses at gunpoint while wearing elaborate costumes. The FBI said Mingo targeted Circle K, Subway and Family Dollar stores across four counties between October 2025 and January 2026.
Police and the FBI arrested Mingo in January when they said it appeared he was putting on the same security guard disguise used during the robbery of a Circle K store the night before. He now faces 20 counts that include Hobbs Act robbery, attempted Hobbs Act robbery, brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The indictment alleges Mingo entered each store late at night, after most customers had left, and robbed employees at gunpoint. He allegedly disguised himself "head to toe" as a construction worker, a health care professional and a security guard, according to U.S. Attorney Theodore Hertzberg.
"To rob these people at gunpoint and to get away with thousands of dollars each time, it's really a blessing that nobody was hurt or killed," Hertzberg told ABC News.
FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Marlo Graham credited collaboration among local agencies with solving the case. "For months, Mingo allegedly used disguises in an attempt to evade identification and continue targeting innocent workers at gunpoint," Graham said. "He underestimated the determination of the investigators pursuing him and the strength of the partnerships that exist between the FBI and our state and local law enforcement partners."
Although this case unfolded in Georgia, it carries a warning for California retailers and late-night workers. The suspect's pattern of approaching employees when customers were gone highlights the importance of situational awareness, surveillance cameras and clear security protocols. California law enforcement often uses the same multi-agency coordination that helped crack this case.
Businesses across California are encouraged to report suspicious activity and to ensure that employees know how to respond during an armed robbery. No amount of cash is worth a life, and law enforcement officials emphasize de-escalation in these situations.
The Hobbs Act is a federal statute that criminalizes robbery or extortion affecting interstate commerce. It allows federal prosecutors to bring charges against suspects who cross state lines or target businesses with supply chains that cross state borders. Federal charges often carry stiffer penalties and longer sentences than state-level robbery charges.
Mingo's criminal history, including a prior felony conviction, adds to his legal exposure. The current charges could put him behind bars for decades.
Mingo was arraigned Thursday and remains in federal custody. His case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia. A trial date has not yet been set.
For California readers, this story serves as a reminder that armed robberies can happen anywhere. Staying aware, following workplace safety guidelines and trusting local law enforcement can help prevent similar tragedies.
