MT. VERNON, NY – Samir Sullivan, 33, of Mt. Vernon, is headed to federal prison for eight years – 96 months – after pleading guilty to terrorizing four cab drivers during a series of brazen armed carjackings in November 2018. The sentencing, handed down by U.S. District Judge Cathy Seibel, brings a measure of closure to a case that left hardworking drivers fearing for their lives.
According to federal prosecutors, Sullivan, along with an accomplice, systematically targeted taxi drivers in Mt. Vernon and the Bronx during the late-night and early-morning hours. The attacks weren’t simple robberies; they were calculated acts of violence. Sullivan repeatedly brandished a firearm, holding it to the heads of his victims, and in at least one instance, physically assaulted a driver with the weapon.
“Four hardworking cab drivers were simply doing their jobs when Samir Sullivan terrified them by pointing a gun at their heads,” stated U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman. “After threatening to shoot all four drivers and hitting one with his gun, Sullivan took their cabs, as well as their cash, wallets, and phones. Today’s lengthy sentence sends a message that this violent behavior will not be tolerated in this district.” The details released paint a horrifying picture of desperation and brutality. Drivers were forced to comply with demands for cash and possessions, some begging for their lives as Sullivan pressed the gun against their faces.
The investigation revealed a pattern: Sullivan and his partner would steal a cab, drive it briefly before abandoning it, and then seek out their next victim. Beyond the vehicles themselves, Sullivan stole cash, wallets, phones, and even a jacket from the terrified drivers. The FBI’s Westchester County Safe Streets Task Force and the Mount Vernon Police Department spearheaded the investigation, building a solid case that led to Sullivan’s conviction.
Sullivan’s guilty plea, entered on January 28, 2019, wasn’t enough to spare him a significant prison term. In addition to the 96-month sentence, Judge Seibel ordered three years of supervised release upon his eventual release. Sullivan is also required to forfeit any proceeds gained from the carjackings and provide full restitution to his victims, though the emotional scars from this ordeal may never fully heal.
Assistant United States Attorney David Felton of the White Plains Division handled the prosecution. This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who provide essential services and the commitment of federal authorities to bring violent offenders to justice. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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