GILBERT, Ariz. – Authorities in Gilbert, Arizona have announced the arrest of four individuals in connection to a violent robbery that took place outside a fast-food restaurant last August. The attack, which has shaken the town of Gilbert and Queen Creek, resulted in the arrests of 18-year-old Christopher Fantastic, 18-year-old Aris Arredondo, and two 16-year-olds whose names have not been released. All four are facing charges of aggravated robbery and aggravated assault, marking the first known arrests related to the string of teen-linked violence in the area.
During his initial court appearance, state prosecutors argued that Fantastic is tied to similar incidents. The judge noted, however, that she didn’t have enough information, based on arresting documents, about Fantastic being linked to a “gang of kids.” Specific details about the attack are unknown since prosecutors asked for documents to remain sealed, and Fantastic’s bail has been set at $25,000.
The arrests come as authorities in Gilbert and Queen Creek are looking into a group known as the “Gilbert Goons,” with concerns that the group may be legally classified as a street gang due to their involvement in criminal acts. The Gilbert Town Council has also unanimously approved a subcommittee to look into teen violence in the area, shedding light on the seriousness of these incidents.
It’s still unclear if the four individuals arrested are connected to the “Gilbert Goons,” and there’s no confirmed link between the group and the death of 16-year-old Preston Lord, who died after being brutally beaten up at a Halloween house party. Furthermore, Queen Creek police announced that charges had been submitted to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office against a total of seven juveniles and adults in connection to Lord’s death, leaving it to the MCAO to decide what, if any, charges will be filed.
As the investigation continues, authorities stress that Fantastic’s arrest is independent and separate from Queen Creek’s investigation into the death of Preston Lord, emphasizing the need for justice in these cases. The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office is underlining the seriousness of the evidence, with a report exceeding 2,000 pages and over 600 pieces of evidence in the form of photos, body camera footage, and interviews. “We have to have it right, and we have to have it right the first time,” said Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell. “We want to have justice for Preston.”
This ongoing investigation aims to address the escalation of teen violence in the area, providing crucial updates into the legal action taken against those involved in criminal incidents.