HOUSTON, TX – U.S. Marshals and local law enforcement apprehended 31-year-old Robert Johnson III, a fugitive wanted for aggravated assault and sexual assault of a child, following an encounter at a McDonald’s restaurant in Houston.
According to U.S. Marshal T. Michael O’Connor of the Southern District, Johnson had been on the run since cutting off his ankle monitor after being released on bond. He was wanted in connection with a September 2024 warrant issued in Collin County. Law enforcement tracked him to the location through intelligence from East Texas authorities.
As officers approached the restaurant, they found Johnson seated inside. They instructed him to comply, but he refused. Officers deployed a Taser, which was ineffective. Johnson then raised an object in a threatening manner toward officers inside the establishment. Officers stationed outside fired at Johnson in response.
Despite being shot, Johnson continued to resist. Officers deployed a K-9 unit, which successfully subdued him, allowing officers to take him into custody. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
The U.S. Marshals task force involved multiple agencies, including the Galveston and Pasadena police departments. The Texas Rangers have taken over the investigation into the officer-involved shooting.
Background on Charges
Johnson, a former North Texas Uber driver, was arrested in July 2024 for allegedly sexually assaulting a 12-year-old passenger. According to Plano police, Johnson picked up the unaccompanied minor in Frisco on July 9 and pulled off the road near 4200 Legacy Dr. in Plano, where the assault occurred.
The child’s mother alerted authorities the following day, leading to an investigation by the Special Victims Unit. A judge granted a warrant for Johnson’s arrest on July 12, and he was taken into custody on July 15. He later posted a $200,000 bond and was released from the Collin County Jail in McKinney before absconding.
Uber permanently banned Johnson from its platform following the allegations, stating that the trip was not booked through an Uber for teens account, which requires parental consent and provides guardians with real-time ride tracking.
Authorities confirmed that Johnson had been on home confinement with an ankle monitor in the Dallas area before fleeing to Houston.
No other individuals were injured during the incident. If you have any information regarding this case, you are urged to contact the Texas Rangers or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.
