The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced federal charges against three Los Angeles County residents linked to a violent robbery spree that spanned over two weeks. The suspects, including a couple from North Hollywood, allegedly paused their criminal activities for a brief trip to Las Vegas—where they got married—before returning to commit more robberies.
Details of the Alleged Crime Spree
According to the DOJ, between January 29 and February 14, 2024, the trio allegedly committed:
- 9 robberies at 7-Eleven stores
- 2 robberies at local doughnut shops across Los Angeles County
- 1 armed robbery at a smoke shop in Orange County
The suspects were identified as:
- Antonio Bland – Alleged gunman with prior convictions for carjacking and drug possession.
- Ronnie Tucker – Bland’s alleged accomplice during the robberies.
- Abigail Luckey – Bland’s wife and alleged getaway driver, who reportedly waited outside in her white sedan during the robberies.
A Wedding Amid a Crime Spree
In a bizarre twist, Bland and Luckey reportedly took a break from their series of crimes to drive to Las Vegas and get married on February 8, 2024.
Just two days after tying the knot, the couple returned to Southern California, where they allegedly committed another armed robbery before their spree ultimately ended.
Federal Charges Filed Under the Hobbs Act
All three suspects face federal felony charges under the Hobbs Act, a law that prohibits robberies and extortion affecting interstate commerce.
The specific charges include:
- Five felony counts of violating the Hobbs Act for Bland, Tucker, and Luckey.
- One additional Hobbs Act count and four counts of brandishing a firearm for Bland and Tucker.
- Two counts of firearm possession by a felon for Bland, given his prior convictions.
Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally emphasized the danger posed by the trio’s violent acts:
“Members of the community should not have to think about being subjected to violence when they walk into a convenience store or business.”
How the Crime Spree Ended
The suspects’ string of robberies came to an end on Valentine’s Day 2024 after a dramatic encounter in Downey. During an attempted robbery at a local doughnut shop, an employee opened fire on Bland and Tucker, halting their crime spree.
No information has been released regarding injuries during the incident, but the gunfire effectively ended the suspects’ pattern of violent crimes.
What’s Next for the Accused
If convicted on all counts, the suspects could face lengthy federal prison sentences due to the severity of the charges and Bland’s prior criminal record. Federal prosecutors are expected to pursue the maximum penalties, given the violent nature of the crimes and the use of firearms.
The case remains under investigation as authorities gather additional evidence and seek to determine whether the trio had any other accomplices or committed additional crimes during their spree.
