Kevin Daniels, Armed Robbery, Columbus OH, 2021

Columbus, OH – Kevin Daniels, 45, is facing a minimum of 25 years behind bars after a federal jury found him guilty of robbing a North High Street mobile phone store in November 2021. The brazen daylight stickup left two store clerks temporarily blinded and fearing for their lives.

According to testimony presented at trial, Daniels stormed into the store around 7:30 p.m. on November 26th, brandishing a semi-automatic handgun. He forced the two clerks to hand over phones and cash from the safe, holding them at gunpoint throughout the ordeal. Before fleeing, Daniels escalated the violence by spraying the clerks in the face with chemical mace, momentarily incapacitating them. The clerks managed to call 911 once they regained enough vision.

Columbus Police responded swiftly, identifying Daniels’ vehicle. A high-speed chase ensued through neighborhood streets before officers apprehended him on the east side of the city. The quick response prevented further potential harm to the public and secured crucial evidence for federal prosecutors.

A federal grand jury indicted Daniels in December 2021, leveling charges of interfering with interstate commerce by robbery – a violation of the Hobbs Act – use of a firearm in a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. The latter charge carries significant weight due to Daniels’ prior federal firearms conviction in Columbus, automatically triggering the 25-year minimum sentence if convicted on any of the charges.

“This conviction sends a clear message that we will relentlessly pursue those who use violence and firearms to terrorize businesses and victimize individuals,” stated Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio. Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Columbus Field Division, and Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant joined Parker in announcing the verdict, reached after a trial before U.S. District Judge Michael Watson on March 21.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys S. Courter Shimeall and Nicole Pakiz are prosecuting the case. Daniels now awaits sentencing, pending a pre-sentencing investigation. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the final sentencing decision, holding Daniels accountable for his violent actions.

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