Aaron J. Gaines, Armed Robbery and Carjacking, Ohio 2021

Aaron J. Gaines, 39, of Akron, Ohio, is behind bars after allegedly committing a series of violent crimes, including armed robbery and carjacking.

According to a federal indictment, Gaines is accused of brandishing a firearm and robbing a convenience store on Arlington Street in Akron on January 25, 2021.

Gaines is also accused of attempting to carjack a vehicle by discharging a firearm and successfully carjacking another vehicle by brandishing a firearm.

In addition to the armed robbery and carjacking charges, Gaines is also facing a charge as a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The indictment alleges that Gaines knew he was prohibited from possessing a 9mm semiautomatic pistol and ammunition due to previous convictions of aggravated burglary and kidnapping in the Summit County Court of Common Pleas.

An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Gaines is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

If convicted, Gaines’ sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including his prior criminal records, his role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum, and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.

The investigation was conducted by the FBI and Akron Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Peter E. Daly and Toni Beth Schnellinger Feisthamel.

Gaines’ prior convictions include aggravated burglary and kidnapping in the Summit County Court of Common Pleas.

Defendant: Aaron J. Gaines

Criminal Charges: Interference with commerce by robbery, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, attempted carjacking, carjacking, and felon in possession of a firearm

City and State: Akron, Ohio

Date: January 25, 2021

Sentence: Not yet determined

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