LOS ANGELES – In a bizarre turn of events, a newlywed couple and their accomplice were arrested following a two-week crime spree across Southern California, authorities said. The trio, accused of robbing multiple businesses, even took a brief detour to Las Vegas to get married in the middle of their string of crimes.
A federal grand jury has indicted Antonio Bland, Ronnie Tucker, and Abigail Luckey on charges of Hobbs Act robbery, linking them to 12 armed robberies across Los Angeles and Orange counties between January 29 and February 14, 2024.
Surveillance footage captured the suspects targeting nine 7-Eleven stores, two doughnut shops, and a smoke shop, often wearing masks and using weapons to intimidate employees.
The crime spree took an unexpected pause on February 6, when Bland and Luckey traveled to Las Vegas to get married. Just two days later, they returned to California and resumed their armed robberies.
Their downfall came on Valentine’s Day when they attempted to rob USA Donuts in Downey. An employee, refusing to be a victim, fired at the suspects as they leaped over the counter. Though no one was injured, police officers nearby witnessed the incident and quickly pulled over the suspects’ vehicle, leading to their arrest.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph McNally condemned the trio’s reckless crimes, stating, “Members of the community should not have to fear for their safety while visiting local businesses. The defendants’ pattern of violence put innocent lives at risk.”
Bland and Tucker face additional charges for brandishing a firearm during a crime, while Bland is also charged with felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The three suspects are scheduled to appear in court in May. If convicted, they could each face a maximum 20-year prison sentence.
Authorities stress that violent crime remains a top priority, ensuring criminals like these face justice for their actions.
