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Crime Wave Hits McKean Federal Correctional Institution
In a shocking turn of events, Jose I. Aquino, a 31-year-old inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of possession of contraband in prison.
Aquino’s alleged crime took place on or about June 14, 2014, when he was in possession of a cell phone, a clear violation of prison rules.
The indictment, presented to the court, has sparked outrage among prison officials and community leaders, who are demanding tougher measures to prevent contraband from entering the institution.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of one year in prison, a fine of $100,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. Officers of the McKean Federal Correctional Institution conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The case against Aquino is a stark reminder of the need for increased security measures in our prisons to prevent the flow of contraband.
The McKean Federal Correctional Institution has a reputation for being one of the most secure prisons in the country, but the fact that Aquino was able to obtain a cell phone raises serious questions about the effectiveness of the institution’s security protocols.
The community is calling for greater accountability and transparency in the wake of this incident, and lawmakers are promising to take action to address the issue of contraband in prisons.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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