Armed Robber Javonte Smith Sentenced to 30 Years for Indy Business Heist Spree

Indy’s Javonte Smith, 34, has been handed a 30-year federal prison sentence after robbing six local businesses in an armed spree. Smith pleaded guilty to six counts of interference with commerce by robbery, three counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Court documents detail how Smith embarked on his crime spree between November 21 and December 2, 2023, making off with $14,797 from Family Dollar, McDonald’s, Walmart, and Kroger locations. His brazen actions ended when IMPD officers followed him to a Motel 6 where they arrested him.

During his search of Smith’s vehicle, police discovered disguises, including wigs, masks, gloves, and a black Taurus handgun, as well as keys to a stolen GMC Terrain. Smith had previously been convicted of multiple felonies, making it illegal for him to possess firearms.

‘This defendant terrorized hard-working people trying to earn a living,’ said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. ‘He will now face serious federal prison time.’ FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy O’Malley echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the threat Smith’s actions posed to public safety.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and IMPD, with the sentence imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in Indianapolis.

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