Texas teens accused of using dating apps to lure young men into violent robberies that left one victim shot
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In Texas, two teenagers stand accused of exploiting online dating platforms to entrap young men, leading to violent robberies. One victim was pistol-whipped, and a 15-year-old boy was shot four times, according to authorities.

Seventeen-year-old Alyssa Canul was taken into custody on May 27 in Universal City, a suburb near San Antonio. She faces two counts of aggravated robbery, as confirmed by Universal City officials and Bexar County arrest records.

Authorities allege that Canul collaborated with her boyfriend, Joseph Anthony Aguilar, 18. Aguilar was apprehended a day prior, on May 26, during a SWAT operation. He now faces several felony charges.

Aguilar’s arrest on May 26 was part of an extensive SWAT operation involving multiple agencies. (Photo courtesy of City of Universal City via Facebook)

Police claim the duo used dating apps to target young men, persuading them to meet in person only to rob and assault them once they arrived.

“The couple had recently moved to Universal City and are accused of using online dating sites to lure young men before robbing and assaulting them,” stated a city spokesperson.

In one case, a victim was allegedly robbed and pistol-whipped.

In one case, a victim was allegedly robbed and pistol-whipped. (Getty Images)

In another, a 15-year-old boy was lured to a meeting spot and shot four times. The teen survived and is recovering from his injuries, authorities said.

The suspects were living at Universal City’s Villa Mesa Apartments at the time of the alleged attacks, according to police.

Aguilar was taken into custody during a SWAT operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies.

Investigators at the time said a female accomplice remained at large until authorities later identified and arrested Canul.

Hands holding and using a smartphone in bed at night

Police allege the pair targeted young men through dating apps, convincing them to meet in person before robbing and assaulting them. (iStock)

Universal City Police Chief Johnny Siemens praised the swift response by officers and partner agencies.

“When something like this happens, there is always concern in the community,” Siemens said. “In this case, all officers involved moved quickly.”

Universal City Police could not immediately be reached by News Agency for comment.

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