Serial armed robbery suspect captured
A man wanted in connection with at least 10 armed robberies was caught by authorities Monday, Gwinnett County police said.
Rufus Jerome Smith, 25, attempted to run from police and a Taser was used to subdue him, police said Tuesday. He was arrested without further incident.
Smith is charged with armed robbery, aggravated assault and possession of a weapon during the commission of a crime. He is likely to face additional charges because authorities believe he is responsible for 10 or more armed robberies in Buford and the surrounding area, police said.
He is accused of primarily targeting gas stations and convenience stories in the northern part of Gwinnett County. Shots were fired during two of the robberies, but there were no injuries.
Smith was taken into custody outside the Tree Park Apartments in Flowery Branch, where he had been staying, police said. Authorities from the Gwinnett police department and sheriff’s office and the Hall County Sheriff’s Office worked together.
Smith is in custody at the Gwinnett County Detention Center without bond.
About the Author
Angel K. Brooks is a senior manager for the programming team, focusing on quality control. She has been with the AJC since 2007 and started as a sports copy editor. She is a graduate of Florida A&M University.
