In a brazen robbery, Darren Bell, 19, and Altonio Benson, 27, both of Detroit, Michigan, allegedly smashed display cases with hammers at a jewelry store in Hobart, Indiana, making off with approximately $803,000 in jewelry.
According to a criminal complaint filed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the robbery took place on January 25, 2019, at approximately 7:05 pm while the store was open to customers. Bell and Benson were apprehended shortly after.
U.S. Attorney Kirsch praised law enforcement for their swift response, stating, ‘Brazen robberies such as this case commands a swift response from law enforcement.’ He commended all law enforcement partners for their work in investigating the case.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that a criminal complaint is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Padilla is prosecuting the case, which is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Gang Response Investigative Team and the Hobart Police Department.
As stated in the criminal complaint, if convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the judge after a consideration of federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of aggressive investigation and prosecution of crimes affecting interstate commerce. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work tirelessly to bring these individuals to justice.
Key Facts
- State: Indiana
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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