GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Fifteen people have been arrested in connection with a series of after-hours burglaries at Urban Air Adventure Park locations across Gwinnett County that police say were inspired by a social media trend.
According to the Gwinnett County Police Department, officers have responded to seven burglaries at Urban Air locations since June 4. Investigators said the incidents involved teenagers and young adults unlawfully entering the businesses after closing to use attractions and arcade games while also causing property damage and vandalism.
Police said 11 individuals, including eight 17-year-olds, two 18-year-olds and one 20-year-old, have been arrested. Four additional juveniles were also taken into custody, bringing the total number of arrests to 15.
Those arrested were identified as Amaury Armas Alvarez, 17; Andy Colunga Castillo, 17; John Stringer, 17; Angel Candelaria Garcia, 17; Christian Currin, 17; Fernando Ramirez, 17; Ahil Ibrahim, 17; Kareem Liftawi, 17; Daniel Chelnokov, 18; Ethan Mogilinedi, 18; and Adam Ayres, 20. Police did not release the identities of the four juveniles.
The suspects face charges including burglary, criminal trespass, loitering and prowling, along with other related offenses.
Investigators said the burglaries are linked to a social media trend encouraging participants to enter entertainment venues after business hours to access attractions and arcade games without authorization.
Police warned that participating in online challenges involving criminal activity can lead to serious legal consequences.
“Burglary, criminal trespass, criminal damage to property, and other related offenses may result in arrest and prosecution, regardless of whether the acts are portrayed as entertainment or a social media challenge,” the department said in a news release.
The department said detectives will continue using surveillance footage and other digital evidence to identify additional suspects connected to the burglaries.
Anyone with information about the incidents is asked to contact Gwinnett County Police Department detectives at 770-513-5300.
Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip through its website. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward if their information leads to an arrest and indictment.
