An Arizona man accused of violently attacking his girlfriend and fleeing the state was arrested at LEGOLAND California, authorities confirmed. Investigators said the arrest followed a multi-state search and was made possible with the help of a community tip and coordination between law enforcement agencies.
Arrest
The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office announced Monday that Jason Marchesano, 46, was taken into custody at the LEGOLAND resort and theme park in San Diego County. Marchesano had been sought in connection with an alleged assault that occurred in northern Arizona last year.
Detectives tracked Marchesano across multiple states before learning he had traveled to California. Local law enforcement assisted in locating and arresting him at the popular family destination.
Allegations
According to the sheriff’s office, the alleged attack occurred on October 28, 2025, inside a towable recreational vehicle in the unincorporated community of Paulden in Yavapai County.
Investigators allege that Marchesano strangled his girlfriend using bedsheets following an argument. The victim was able to escape during the incident and later reported the assault to authorities.
Deputies documented bruising on the victim that was consistent with her account, officials said.
Investigation
After the incident was reported, Marchesano fled, prompting a search that extended beyond Arizona. Detectives pursued leads in both Arizona and Nevada before determining that he had gone to California.
The sheriff’s office said a tip from a member of the public played a key role in helping authorities locate the suspect, leading to his arrest at LEGOLAND.
Charges
Marchesano is facing several serious charges, including attempted second-degree homicide, kidnapping, and aggravated assault, according to officials.
He is scheduled to make his next court appearance on July 2 at the Central Courthouse in San Diego.
Law Enforcement Response
In a statement, the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office credited collaboration and public cooperation for the arrest.
“This arrest was made possible by strong investigative work, interagency partnership, and a community member who chose to speak up,” the agency said.
Authorities did not say whether Marchesano was visiting the theme park alone or accompanied by others at the time of his arrest.
Context
The arrest comes amid other recent high-profile fugitive cases across the United States. Earlier this year, a Polish national wanted on fraud and money laundering charges was arrested at a U.S. Army training facility in Missouri after authorities discovered he was sought by Interpol.
Law enforcement agencies have increasingly emphasized the role of public tips and interagency coordination in locating suspects who flee across state or national borders.
A summary of key details is provided below:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Jason Marchesano, 46 |
| Origin | Arizona |
| Alleged incident date | October 28, 2025 |
| Location of incident | Paulden, Yavapai County |
| Arrest location | LEGOLAND California, San Diego County |
| Charges | Attempted second-degree homicide, kidnapping, aggravated assault |
| Court date | July 2 |
| Status | In custody |
The investigation remains active, and authorities have not released additional details regarding the circumstances of the arrest or whether further charges may be filed.
FAQs
Who was arrested at LEGOLAND California?
Jason Marchesano, an Arizona fugitive.
What is he accused of?
Attempted homicide, kidnapping, and aggravated assault.
Where did the alleged attack occur?
Inside an RV in Paulden, Arizona.
How was he located?
Through investigation and a community tip.
When is his next court date?
July 2 in San Diego.
Pence Says Violent Jan. 6 Rioters Pardoned by Trump ‘Should Never Get a Dime’ in New Interview