In a significant development in the Tucson Amtrak shooter case, Devonte Okeith Mathis, the co-conspirator of the shooter, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison by United States District Judge Rosemary Márquez. Mathis pleaded guilty to several charges, including Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Marijuana and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. The incident occurred on October 4, 2021, when Mathis and his co-conspirator were aboard an Amtrak train in Tucson, Arizona. The co-conspirator shot and killed Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent Michael Garbo during the incident. Mathis admitted that he knew about his co-conspirator’s possession of firearms and that they were used in their drug trafficking activities. This sentencing brings a degree of closure to the case and provides accountability for the criminal conduct.
Background
In a recent development surrounding the shooting incident aboard an Amtrak train in Tucson, Arizona, the co-conspirator involved in the crime has been sentenced to 10 years in prison. The sentencing of Devonte Okeith Mathis brings a degree of closure to the tragic events that took place on October 4, 2021, resulting in the death of a DEA Special Agent and injuries to another DEA Special Agent and a DEA Task Force Officer. This article will delve into the charges, the shooting incident, the victim injuries, the co-conspirator’s death, and the admission of knowledge in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of the case.
Sentencing of Co-Conspirator
Devonte Okeith Mathis
Devonte Okeith Mathis, a 24-year-old resident of Mesquite, Texas, appeared before United States District Judge Rosemary Márquez for sentencing. Mathis pleaded guilty to three charges: Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, Using and Carrying a Firearm During and In Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. The court sentenced Mathis to 10 years in prison, with 60 months on Count 2 to be served consecutively to 60 months on Count 1. Following his release, Mathis will be subject to 60 months of supervised release.
Charges and Plea
Devonte Okeith Mathis pleaded guilty to the charges of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, Using and Carrying a Firearm During and In Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. These charges stem from his involvement in the drug trafficking conspiracy that ultimately led to the shooting incident aboard the Amtrak train in Tucson.
The Shooting Incident
On October 4, 2021, Mathis and his co-conspirator were aboard an Amtrak train in Tucson when his co-conspirator opened fire, resulting in the death of DEA Special Agent Michael Garbo. Another DEA Special Agent and a DEA Task Force Officer were also injured in the incident. The shooting incident sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community and prompted a comprehensive investigation into the events leading up to the tragic incident.
Victim Injuries
During the shooting incident, two law enforcement officers sustained injuries. One of the injured officers was a DEA Special Agent, and the other was a DEA Task Force Officer. The injuries sustained by these officers served as a reminder of the significant risks law enforcement officers face daily while safeguarding our communities. Their injuries highlighted the importance of prosecuting those responsible for such crimes to the fullest extent of the law.
Co-Conspirator’s Death
Following the shooting incident, a shootout ensued between Mathis’s co-conspirator and a Tucson Police Department Sergeant. Unfortunately, Mathis’s co-conspirator lost their life on the scene. The co-conspirator’s death brought an end to their involvement in the drug trafficking conspiracy but left behind a trail of devastation for the victims and their families.
Admission of Knowledge
As part of his guilty plea, Mathis admitted that he had knowledge of his co-conspirator’s possession of two handguns. He further acknowledged that it was reasonably foreseeable that his co-conspirator would possess the firearms to further their drug trafficking conspiracy. Mathis also admitted that he knew his co-conspirator would carry and use the two handguns during the course of their drug trafficking activities.
Statement from United States Attorney
Resilience and Honor
United States Attorney Gary Restaino reflected on the resilience demonstrated by all those affected by the tragedy. He acknowledged the strength of DEA Group Supervisor Michael G. Garbo’s family and praised the courage and recovery of the injured DEA agent and TPD officer. Restaino also emphasized the invaluable partnership between law enforcement agencies and highlighted the commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring community safety. He paid tribute to the heroic actions of Agent Garbo and commended his dedication to making those around him better.
Statement from FBI Special Agent
Ultimate Sacrifice and Closure
FBI Special Agent in Charge Akil Davis expressed gratitude towards law enforcement officers who risk their lives daily to protect communities. He specifically mentioned Supervisory Special Agent Michael Garbo’s ultimate sacrifice in safeguarding everyone aboard the train and preventing further harm. Davis hoped that Mathis’s sentencing would provide a measure of comfort and closure to Agent Garbo’s loved ones and colleagues.
Statement from Tucson Chief of Police
Seared in Memory
Tucson Chief of Police Chad Kasmar acknowledged the lasting impact of the tragic events on October 4, 2021, stating that the day was seared into the collective memory of the agency and the law enforcement community. He paid tribute to DEA Group Supervisor Mike Garbo, emphasizing that he would never be forgotten. Chief Kasmar expressed pride in the response of the Tucson Police Department and hoped that the sentencing decision would bring closure and peace to Agent Garbo’s family and all those affected by the incident.
In conclusion, the sentencing of Devonte Okeith Mathis to 10 years in prison for his involvement in the drug trafficking conspiracy that led to the shooting incident aboard an Amtrak train in Tucson brings a sense of closure to the tragic events. As the law enforcement community continues to honor the memory of DEA Special Agent Michael Garbo and support the recovery of the injured officers, it serves as a reminder of the risks they face daily in keeping our communities safe. The commitment to upholding the rule of law and seeking justice for the victims remains unwavering.