Celebrity Chef Valentino Luchin Arrested for Alleged San Francisco Bank Robberies
Valentino Luchin, a 62-year-old celebrity chef, has been arrested in San Francisco for allegedly robbing three banks on the same day. The San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) took Luchin into custody following an investigation into multiple bank robberies in the city's Central District.
Details of the Alleged Robberies
According to the SFPD, on September 10, 2025, officers responded to a bank on the 1100 block of Grant Avenue regarding a robbery. The suspect, later identified as Valentino Luchin, reportedly passed a note to a bank employee demanding money. The employee complied, and Luchin allegedly fled with U.S. currency. The SFPD Robbery Unit took over the investigation and determined that Luchin was also responsible for two additional bank robberies that occurred in the Central District that same day, involving a similar suspect description and modus operandi.
Previous Arrest and Financial Troubles
This isn't the first time Valentino Luchin has been accused of bank robbery. Back in 2019, he was arrested for robbing a bank in Orinda, allegedly making off with over $15,000. In an interview with KGO-TV following the 2019 arrest, Luchin attributed his actions to desperation due to financial hardship after his former restaurant, Ottavio, closed in 2016.
SFPD Investigation and Apprehension
The SFPD credits quick work from Central District officers, investigators, and SFPD Ambassadors for the swift identification and apprehension of Luchin. Investigators were able to identify Valentino Luchin as the suspect after receiving assistance from SFPD Ambassadors and leads from the community. Officers formulated a strategic plan and apprehended Luchin without further incident.
Charges Filed Against Luchin
Valentino Luchin has been booked into the San Francisco County Jail on multiple charges, including robbery (211 PC), attempted robbery (664/211 PC 2nd), and robbery (211 PC 2nd degree). The SFPD case numbers associated with the investigation are 250-509-159, 250-508-985, and 250-509-165.
