TAMPA, FL – The streets of Hillsborough County are marginally safer following a year of aggressive federal prosecutions targeting violent offenders. In 2022, a joint effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) resulted in the conviction of 69 individuals on federal charges, and the removal of 53 firearms from circulation. The results, while a small dent in the overall crime picture, showcase a focused approach to taking down repeat offenders and those responsible for the most brutal acts.
One of the most disturbing cases involved Keon Moore, a high-ranking member of the Money Power Respect gang. Moore was sentenced to 17 years and 6 months in federal prison after being found guilty of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon, and possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute. Court records revealed Moore not only stockpiled weapons and drugs for personal use and sale, but actively threatened violence – including a drive-by shooting – over a mere $90 drug debt. A desperate text message from a debtor begging Moore to spare his life laid bare the brutality of Moore’s operation.
The violence didn’t stop there. Jy’Quale Grable now faces a mandatory minimum sentence of life in federal prison after a jury convicted him of conspiracy, robbery, and first-degree premeditated murder. Grable, along with accomplices, targeted residents of the Valrico Station Apartments in Brandon. The robbery escalated into a horrific act of violence, with Grable shooting one victim in the neck, instantly severing his spinal cord, and another in the chest, perforating his heart and lung. The calculated brutality of the attack underscores the ruthless nature of the individuals HCSO and federal prosecutors are battling.
Another dangerous offender, Ma’at Malik Darius Lee, is facing a potential life sentence. A federal grand jury indicted Lee on seven counts, including carjacking, brandishing a firearm, aggravated identity theft, attempted wire fraud, and possession of a stolen firearm. Authorities allege Lee robbed three individuals at gunpoint and carjacked a fourth between July and October 2021. When a HCSO deputy attempted a traffic stop, Lee allegedly opened fire, discharging at least eight rounds before fleeing the scene. The incident highlights the escalating risks faced by law enforcement.
U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg emphasized the importance of these partnerships. “Fighting violent crime is one of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s core goals,” Handberg stated. “Fortunately, we are not alone… The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office… continues to play a key role in prosecuting violent criminals.” Sheriff Chad Chronister echoed the sentiment, declaring, “Our duty is to ensure the residents of Hillsborough County are safe and protected.”
The investigations leading to these convictions involved a multi-agency effort, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorneys Cal Albritton and Samanth are prosecuting the cases. While these convictions represent a win for law enforcement, the relentless cycle of violence in Hillsborough County demands continued vigilance and a sustained commitment to bringing perpetrators to justice.
Related Federal Cases
- Antonio Hernandez-Vilar, Card Fraud Ring Leadership, Tampa FL, 2015 · Puerto Rico
- Matthew William McLean, Transporting Minor for Sex, Tampa FL, 2023 · Florida
- Vivek Ramaswamy Rejects VP Offer, Focusing on Presidential Ambition… · Florida
- No Defendant Name Found, Taiwan Rattles China with Military Drills,… · Pennsylvania
- No Defendant Name Found, Missile Strike, Kyiv Ukraine, 2023 · Florida
Key Facts
- Agency: ATF
- Category: Violent Crime|Organized Crime|Weapons|Drug Trafficking
- Source: Official Press Release
Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News