Four carjacking victims in Central Florida were left shaken after a brazen crime spree in January 2017. The culprits behind the heinous crimes have finally faced justice, with three men sentenced to federal prison for their roles in the crimes.
Jeffrey Noel (25, Orlando), Herichie Paul (21, Orlando), and Awetu Megersa (23, Orlando) were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Paul Byron to 25, 16, and 13 years in federal prison, respectively, for carjacking and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
According to court documents, the trio were part of a carjacking crew that struck four victims at gunpoint in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties during the first week of January 2017. The crimes were described as particularly violent, with one victim, a fast-food delivery driver, being confronted by the defendants and others while attempting to deliver food to an abandoned apartment in Orange County.
The defendants forced the victim into the apartment at gunpoint and then removed the victim’s clothing, cellphone, wallet, and the keys to his minivan. Just a few days later, another victim was carjacked at gunpoint as he was returning from work.
The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nathan W. Hill. The sentences handed down by Judge Byron bring an end to a long and arduous process for the victims, who had to endure the trauma of being carjacked at gunpoint.
Orlando is a city with a growing reputation for crime, with many residents feeling that the streets are becoming increasingly unsafe. The sentencing of Noel, Paul, and Megersa sends a strong message that carjacking will not be tolerated in Central Florida.
The victims of these crimes will be able to begin the long process of healing now that justice has been served. The Grimy Times will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
— In Orlando, Florida, U.S. District Judge Paul Byron sentenced Jeffrey Noel, Herichie Paul, and Awetu Megersa to 25, 16, and 13 years in federal prison, respectively, for carjacking and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
— The crimes took place in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties during the first week of January 2017.
— The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nathan W. Hill.
— The sentences bring an end to a long and arduous process for the victims, who had to endure the trauma of being carjacked at gunpoint.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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