Fullerton, CA – Fullerton Police have arrested three men in connection with a planned armed robbery that targeted multiple victims in May, authorities announced this week. The robbery involved high-end jewelry and left victims shaken and traumatized, highlighting concerns about targeted crimes in Southern California.
Incident Details
The crime occurred on May 10, 2025, in the 2700 block of W. Orangethorpe Avenue. According to police reports, the victims were walking to their vehicle when they were held at gunpoint by the suspects, who stole several high-end jewelry items before fleeing the scene at high speed.
Investigators later discovered that the robbery was not random. The suspects allegedly followed the victims across multiple cities prior to the attack, suggesting that the crime was well-planned and targeted rather than opportunistic.
Investigation and Arrests
The investigation was led by Fullerton Police detectives with support from the ATF Orange County Violent Crimes Task Force. After months of following leads, gathering evidence, and analyzing surveillance footage, authorities executed multiple search warrants on September 10, 2025.
As per KTLA, the operation resulted in the arrests of:
- Donald Jones, 21, of Los Angeles
- George Barragan, 20, of Whittier
- Gavin Stafford, 19, of Compton
During the searches, law enforcement recovered evidence linked to the robbery, including items stolen from the victims, helping to strengthen the case against the suspects.
Booking and Prosecution
All three suspects were booked into Fullerton City Jail. The case has been submitted to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution. Police emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges or suspects could be pursued as new evidence emerges.
Community Safety and Law Enforcement Efforts
Authorities stressed the importance of public vigilance, particularly when walking to vehicles or visiting public areas. This case highlights the increasing sophistication of some criminal operations and the need for cooperation between local and federal agencies to prevent targeted crimes.
Fullerton Police encouraged residents to:
- Be aware of their surroundings, especially in parking lots and residential areas
- Report suspicious activity immediately to law enforcement
- Use security cameras and tracking apps where possible to enhance personal safety
Broader Implications
The arrest of Jones, Barragan, and Stafford underscores the effectiveness of coordinated police investigations and the vital role of federal task forces like the ATF Violent Crimes Task Force in tracking and apprehending suspects involved in serious crimes across city lines.
Join the Conversation
Do you feel safe walking in your neighborhood or parking lots after dark? What measures should communities and law enforcement take to prevent targeted robberies? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
