FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — A Maryland man accused of repeatedly stealing from gym patrons across Northern Virginia is once again behind bars, now facing more than 100 charges for a series of thefts dating back to 2024.
Robert Brockington, 50, was arrested in Washington, D.C., after Fairfax County police and D.C. authorities worked together to track him down. He’s awaiting extradition back to Virginia, where he faces at least 139 charges connected to thefts at gyms across Fairfax County.
Investigators say Brockington targeted fitness centers, including multiple Planet Fitness locations and a Gold’s Gym in Annandale, where he allegedly broke into lockers and vehicles to steal cash, credit cards, and even cars. Police say he used bolt cutters to break open lockers before taking valuables.
Since December 2024, police have linked Brockington to more than 90 thefts in Fairfax County alone. His arrest on Thursday came after a license plate reader helped officers locate him.
“A license plate reader absolutely came into play with this case,” said Major James Curry with the Fairfax County Police Department. “That’s a great resource not only here but across the national capital region.”
Police say Brockington had previously been arrested for similar gym-related thefts earlier this year but was later released. It remains unclear why he was freed despite facing multiple related charges.
Authorities continue to coordinate with the Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney as the investigation moves forward.
