Former UFC fighter Karl Roberson has been charged in a New Jersey robbery case involving the theft of over $200,000 worth of jewelry and valuables.
Former UFC fighter Karl Roberson has been charged in connection to a robbery in New Jersey, where over $200,000 worth of jewelry and valuables were allegedly stolen. The Howell Township Police Department confirmed Roberson’s identity with lead detective, Detective Ryan Jackson, who said, “Yes, it would be the same person, Mr. Roberson. I’m familiar with his UFC career. It is definitely the UFC fighter, I’m well aware of that. I’m aware that he’s been released. He was lodged at our county jail for two to three weeks; since then, he has been released.”
According to the initial press release, Roberson, 32, was one of two men arrested following an investigation into a residential burglary. The suspects allegedly pried open a rear door and went to the master bedroom, where they located and stole over $200,000 in exotic jewelry and valuables. They were captured on home security surveillance cameras both inside and outside the home. The suspects were wearing masks at the time of the robbery, and the homeowner offered a reward for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the culprits.
Detective Jackson and Detective Anthony Romano used advanced training in technical applications and analysis of cellular data to develop multiple suspects, eventually identifying Roberson and Dathan Thompson, 32, as the prime suspects. Roberson was arrested during a traffic stop in Neptune, N.J., after his vehicle was connected with the robbery. A search of the vehicle revealed a defaced 9mm handgun with an extended magazine, several packages of suspected crack cocaine, marijuana, and items related to the burglary. Thompson was arrested at his home, without incident, and later charged with burglary, theft, and criminal mischief.
Roberson was subsequently charged with burglary, theft, criminal mischief, possession of a controlled dangerous substance, and several weapons offenses. In New Jersey, burglary charges are considered a second or third degree felony, depending on the severity of the crime, and carry a potential term of up to 10 years in prison if convicted. Roberson spent five years with the UFC and exited the promotion in July 2022 following a fourth consecutive loss in the octagon.