Man who served prison time for armed robbery arrested for string of armed robberies in Jacksonville

Jacksonville FL — On Wednesday, Jacksonville Sheriff TK Waters held a press conference to release more details about a recent string of armed robberies at several businesses in the city. Waters says the suspect Branon Purcell is accused of committing a string of 10 armed robberies at several businesses in Jacksonville over three days. Waters says Purcell is no stranger to law enforcement since he was released from state prison 21 days before the string of robberies after serving 6 ½ years for armed robbery.

Waters says between January 19th and the 21st, Purcell committed 10 armed robberies and in all the incidents, he had the same routine.

“He would arm himself with a handgun, cover himself with a mask, a hat, and a hoodie, then he would walk up to the register, hold the store clerk at gunpoint, and demand money”. Waters says.

The sheriff says the string of robberies tipped off police that they were dealing with a serial robber and investigators were able to create a profile on the suspect and his vehicle. After that, Waters says investigators found Purcell’s vehicle and attempted to pull him over, but he took off. After a chase, Purcell was taken into custody, interviewed by detectives, and arrested.

“In his car, detectives found 1,300 dollars in cash, 22 grams of crack cocaine, a loaded Glock handgun”. Waters says.

JSO says the 10 robberies happened across the city and at different drug stores and gas stations.

Purcell is charged with 11 counts of armed robbery, 10 counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and 1 count of fleeing law enforcement.

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