PHILADELPHIA – Federal Charges Unfold in Murder-for-Hire Plot Involving Allentown Man
Dominic Luis Escalera, a 37-year-old resident of Allentown, Pennsylvania, is now facing federal charges in connection with a murder-for-hire plot, according to a recent indictment. Escalera allegedly used a cell phone and traveled from Newark, New Jersey to Allentown to arrange for the murders of two individuals, M.R. and A.R., between January 28, 2021 and February 17, 2021.
According to the indictment, Escalera made an agreement to pay someone to commit the murders using controlled substances and cash. Furthermore, the indictment alleges that Escalera, aware of his previous felony conviction, illegally possessed a firearm loaded with four live rounds of ammunition. The previous felony conviction precludes Escalera from possessing a firearm.
Acting United States Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams stated, ‘This is the second murder-for-hire case our office has announced in the last three weeks. These charges are a warning to anyone thinking that solicitation of homicide is a solution to your problems: This is not a game.’ Williams continued, ‘If you try to hire someone to commit murder, you will face an aggressive federal investigation and very serious charges. Our office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners across the District to do all we can to prevent senseless violence.’
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Allentown Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. Zaleski. If convicted, Escalera faces a maximum possible sentence of 30 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $750,000 fine.
An indictment, information, or criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
In a joint effort with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, the Pennsylvania State Police thwarted Escalera’s alleged plot, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in combating violent crime. The Allentown man’s case serves as a warning to those considering similar actions, highlighting the severe consequences that come with plots to harm or kill others.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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