Victim of ex-UFC fighter Karl Roberson's alleged burglary was childhood friend, Army vet: 'I feel betrayed'

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EXCLUSIVE: Former UFC fighter Karl Roberson is accused of targeting a childhood friend in a home burglary and stealing more than $200,000 in "exotic jewelry and valuables." 

Ryan Leonard was about 18 years old when he met a then-14-year-old Roberson, as they were both from Neptune City, New Jersey. Leonard knew him as a "humble person that wanted to be a great superstar athlete."

However, Leonard’s thoughts on Roberson quickly changed after what occurred on Dec. 26, 2022. 

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Former UFC Fighter Karl Roberson was arrested in connection to a home burglary in New Jersey, where more than $200,000 worth of jewelry and valuables were stolen. (Ryan Leonard)

Roberson, 32, was arrested on March 27 after police pulled him over in a vehicle that was connected to a burglary at Leonard’s Howell Township home the day after Christmas. 

Authorities issued a press release that stated Roberson was being charged with burglary, theft and criminal mischief as well possession of a controlled dangerous substance and "several weapons offenses."

"During the search officers found a defaced .9mm handgun with an extended magazine, several packages of suspected ‘crack cocaine,’ marijuana and items related to the burglary," authorities said.

A second man, Dathan Thompson, 32, was also arrested on March 27 following a police investigation. He was charged with burglary, theft and criminal mischief and was arrested "without incident" at his home. 

EX-UFC FIGHTER KARL ROBERSON ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO $200K JEWELRY THEFT; HIT WITH WEAPONS, DRUG CHARGES

Leonard detailed to Fox News Digital how he believes