A federal jury in Cleveland found Antun Lewis guilty for the May 2005 fire that took nine lives in a tragic blaze at 1220 East 87th Street.
‘Justice has been served, albeit after a long wait,’ declared United States Attorney Steven M. Dettelbach following the conviction of Lewis, 29, who is to be sentenced on March 18, 2013.
The trial was a culmination of collaboration between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Cleveland Police and Fire Departments, and U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutors.
‘We hope this verdict brings some solace to the families of those who lost their lives in this senseless tragedy,’ Dettelbach added.
The fire, which occurred during a sleepover birthday party for children, resulted in the deaths of eight minors and one adult. The victims were identified as Fakih Jones (7), Malee’ya Williams (12), Shauntavia Mitchell (12), Earnest Tate Jr. (13), Miles Golden Cockfield (13), Antwon Jackson Jr. (14), Moses Williams Jr. (14), Devonte Carter (15), and Medeia Carter (33).
Michael Boxler, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Columbus Field Division, emphasized the severity of arson as a violent crime, stating, ‘The unwavering dedication of ATF agents and prosecutors to this case reflects our commitment to justice for these victims.’ The prosecution was led by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David J. Sierleja, Robert W. Corts, and Michael L. Collyer, with investigative support from the ATF, Cleveland Police Department, and Cleveland Fire Department.
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Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Public Corruption|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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