ALBUQUERQUE – The grimy streets of Albuquerque are no stranger to shock and awe, but the recent charges against David A. Hickman, 28, have set a new precedent for sheer audacity. Hickman is accused of using an explosive device to damage or destroy the Old Navy store at the Pavilions at San Mateo shopping center. The charge was announced by U.S. Attorney Damon P. Martinez and several law enforcement agencies yesterday.
Hickman made his initial appearance in federal court today on a criminal complaint charging him with maliciously damaging or destroying, or attempting to damage or destroy, by means of fire or explosive, a building used in interstate commerce. He remains temporarily detained pending a preliminary hearing and a detention hearing, both of which have yet to be scheduled.
According to the criminal complaint, Albuquerque Police Department (APD) officers arrested Hickman in the early hours of November 26, 2016, after responding to reports of ‘small explosions’ at the Pavilions at San Mateo shopping center. Upon arrival, they observed Hickman running into and out of the Old Navy store, which was engulfed in flames.
If convicted on the charge in the criminal complaint, Hickman faces a statutory penalty of not less than five years and not more than 20 years in prison. Charges in criminal complaints are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless found guilty in a court of law.
The investigation into this chilling case is ongoing and being conducted by the Albuquerque Division of the FBI, the ATF office in Albuquerque, APD, and AFD. Assistant U.S. Attorney Fred J. Federici is prosecuting the case.
This isn’t just another blight on Albuquerque’s record; it’s a stark reminder that even the most mundane places can be targets for terror. Stay tuned to Grimy Times for updates on this explosive situation.
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Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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