FALLS CHURCH, Va. — A Washington D.C. man has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for his role in a violent, multi-state robbery ring that targeted South Asian jewelry stores across the eastern U.S. The crew, allegedly led by aspiring rapper Trevor Wright, known by his stage name “Taliban Glizzy,” netted millions in gold and cash before their operation was dismantled in 2023.
Robert Sheffield Sentenced for Armed Robbery Conspiracy
Robert Sheffield, 34, who also goes by “Da Real Lifaa,” pleaded guilty in February 2025 to two federal charges:
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Conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act robbery)
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Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and aiding and abetting
Sheffield’s sentencing includes 108 months (9 years) in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release.
According to U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, Sheffield was an active participant in at least two high-profile armed robberies during the ring’s 18-month operation, from January 2022 to August 2023.
High-Profile Heists in Harrisburg and Falls Church
Sheffield was directly involved in two major robberies:
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November 10, 2022: Baral Jewelers, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
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April 28, 2023: Yasini Jewelers, Falls Church, Virginia
Baral Jewelers — $1 Million Heist
On November 10, 2022, Sheffield and other members of the crew traveled from D.C. to Baral Jewelers in Harrisburg, using two vehicles. While two individuals stayed behind as getaway drivers, Sheffield and others stormed into the store—some armed with guns.
As employees and customers were forced to the ground at gunpoint, Sheffield and three others smashed display cases and stuffed gold jewelry worth nearly $1 million into large bags. One gunman held the owner at gunpoint and took $600 from the register.
Only weeks later, a co-defendant posted an Instagram image showing Sheffield fanning a stack of cash. On November 30, Sheffield was captured on video buying an $11,500 Rolex in cash at a Prince George’s County jewelry store—using hundred-dollar bills.
Yasini Jewelers — Gunfire Exchange
Months later, on April 28, 2023, Sheffield and at least five co-conspirators returned to Yasini Jewelers in Falls Church, Virginia—a store they had already robbed in January 2022, stealing $300,000 to $400,000 in gold.
That night, the crew smashed in the storefront window with a sledgehammer around 8 p.m. and rushed inside. Sheffield, armed with a Glock 23 .40 caliber pistol, entered with the group.
However, the store owner fought back, firing a shot at the intruders. Sheffield returned fire, shooting twice before fleeing. No jewelry was taken during that attempt, but the violence escalated concerns over the crew’s methods and disregard for public safety.
A Crew Led by ‘Taliban Glizzy’
According to court documents, the robbery ring was allegedly led by Trevor Wright, aka “Taliban Glizzy,” a D.C.-area rapper. The group strategically targeted South Asian jewelry stores, known for high-value gold inventory, often stored in bulk for cultural and ceremonial use.
The crew, numbering 15 members, orchestrated coordinated robberies in multiple states, often traveling together, using armed intimidation, and conducting surveillance on targets before striking.
Their tactics included:
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Armed entry into stores during business hours
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Forcing staff and customers to the floor
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Smashing glass displays
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Rapid escapes using getaway drivers
The violent nature of the heists and the specific targeting of South Asian businesses drew attention from federal prosecutors, who described the crimes as coordinated, terrorizing, and racially targeted.
Arrest and Search Leads to Gun Recovery
Sheffield was arrested on August 30, 2023, alongside several co-defendants. During a search of his residence, authorities recovered the same firearm used in the Yasini Jewelers robbery, as well as live ammunition.
He had previously served five years in prison for armed robbery, making this his second serious offense.
Social Media as Evidence
One of the more damning aspects of the case was the group’s tendency to flaunt their crimes on social media. Photos and videos showed Sheffield flashing cash and making high-end purchases just days after the robberies. In one Instagram story, Sheffield can be seen counting cash to buy the Rolex, with the camera later showing the luxury watch.
Prosecutors used this content to corroborate surveillance footage and link Sheffield to the financial proceeds of the crimes.
Justice Department Sends a Clear Message
U.S. Attorney Pirro praised the coordinated effort between local law enforcement and federal agencies to dismantle the robbery ring.
“This sentence sends a clear message: violent crimes against small businesses—especially those that exploit racial targeting—will be met with the full force of federal prosecution,” she said. “We are committed to protecting immigrant and minority-owned businesses from this kind of predatory criminal activity.”
Authorities have not disclosed the status of “Taliban Glizzy” or whether further indictments are pending for other members of the crew, though investigations remain ongoing.
As Sheffield begins his nine-year sentence, federal officials say they are continuing to pursue justice for the victims of these high-profile robberies and to dismantle any remaining parts of the crew’s operation.
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