Jeremy Peter Capodanno, Marijuana Grow Op Shooting, Puyallup WA, 2023

PUYALLUP, WA – Jeremy Peter Capodanno, 36, is facing federal charges after a December 6th shootout at his Puyallup residence left two intruders dead. Capodanno was arrested late yesterday following a grand jury indictment last week, U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan announced. The incident stemmed from a large-scale marijuana grow operation discovered within the loft of Capodanno’s garage.

According to authorities, Capodanno shot and killed two individuals who broke into his garage. Upon arrival, officers discovered a sophisticated marijuana grow with nearly 200 plants. Capodanno was found in possession of a Glock 17, 9mm semiautomatic pistol – the weapon police allege was used in the deadly confrontation. A subsequent search of his truck revealed a disturbing arsenal: a Bushmaster XM-15 Rifle, an Intratec Tec-9 9mm pistol, a Benelli 12 gauge shotgun, and a Professional Ordinance MDL Carbon 15.

“This defendant chose to enter the illegal drug business, and armed himself to protect his trade, not his home,” Durkan stated bluntly. “His conduct brought thieves to his door, put his seven-year-old son at risk, and ended with him taking two lives.” The indictment charges Capodanno with manufacturing marijuana due to the size of the operation. He also faces charges for discharging and possessing the Glock in furtherance of drug trafficking, and for possessing the additional weapons.

Federal prosecutors aren’t just targeting Capodanno’s freedom; they’re coming for his assets. The government intends to forfeit properties allegedly used in the commission of the crimes or purchased with marijuana proceeds. This includes Capodanno’s Puyallup house – the scene of the shooting – a second residence in Kent, Washington, a 2008 Mercedes, and a 2008 Toyota pickup truck. The firearms used in the incident are also slated for forfeiture.

“As you can see, freedom without responsibility results in violence and bloodshed,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Matthew G. Barnes. “I commend United States Attorney Jenny Durkan and our state and local partners for standing together against drug trafficking and gun related violence.” The investigation was a joint effort between the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department, with Assistant United States Attorneys Vince Lombardi and Matthew Thomas handling the prosecution.

Capodanno is scheduled to make his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Tacoma today at 2:30 PM. He faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison if convicted on all charges. Manufacturing marijuana carries a potential sentence of five to 40 years. It’s crucial to remember that these are allegations, and Capodanno is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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