Courtland Renford, Rioting, New York 2020

Buffalo Man Going To Prison For Throwing A Burning Basket Into Buffalo City Hall During Violent Protests

Buffalo, NY – A man from Buffalo, New York, has been sentenced to serve 60 months in prison for his involvement in violent protests in 2020, according to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s office.

Courtland Renford, 22, was convicted of rioting and sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara in connection with the incident.

On May 30, 2020, Renford participated in the looting and rioting of a 7-11 convenience store located on the corner of Elmwood Avenue and Summer Avenue in Buffalo. At approximately 10:10 p.m., a large group shattered the front door of the 7-11 and began looting the store. Renford was one of the first individuals to enter the 7-11 and his conduct was captured on surveillance footage.

Later that same evening, at approximately 11:25 p.m., Renford participated in a public protest near Buffalo City Hall, resulting in significant property damage and looting. During the protest Renford threw a burning laundry basket into a broken window of Buffalo City Hall, resulting in a fire inside the building. Buffalo firefighters extinguished the fire, which damaged and/or destroyed items inside Buffalo City Hall.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. Devito, and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Byron Lockwood.

Renford’s 60-month prison sentence is a result of his conviction for rioting, a charge that carries significant penalties. The U.S. Attorney’s office announced the sentencing in a press release, stating that the defendant’s actions caused significant damage to property and disrupted the community.

The investigation into the incident was led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Buffalo Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s office worked closely with these agencies to bring the defendant to justice.

Renford’s case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of engaging in violent behavior during protests. The U.S. Attorney’s office will continue to work tirelessly to hold individuals accountable for their actions and to keep the community safe.

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