NewPORT NEWS, Va. – A federal grand jury has levelled a heavy charge against Christopher Robertson, 33, and Aquilla Jones, 38, charging them with 12 counts of robbery and two counts of using a firearm during a crime of violence.
According to the latest allegations from the DOJ USAO, the couple, along with unnamed co-conspirators, embarked on a series of daring robberies spanning Virginia Beach, Newport News, York County, Chesapeake, and Spotsylvania County. The list of targeted businesses reads like a who’s who of local commerce:
- Sept. 24, 2013: Gulf Gas Station, Fredericksburg
- Oct. 1, 2013: Captain D’s, Fredericksburg
- Oct. 6, 2013: Big Lots, Yorktown
- Oct. 8, 2013: Fast Mart, Spotsylvania
- Dec. 4, 2014: Citgo Gas Station, Newport News
- Dec. 6, 2014: Shell Gas Station, Yorktown; Hop and Shop, Newport News; and Shell Gas Station, Newport News
- Dec. 8, 2014: Shell Gas Station, Newport News
- Dec. 10, 2014: Smoke Shop, Chesapeake (Attempt)
- Dec. 11, 2014: Mini-Mart, Virginia Beach
- Dec. 12, 2014: Gulf Gas Station, Fredericksburg
- Dec. 13, 2014: Subway Restaurant, Fredericksburg
The duo faces conspiracy to commit robbery, use of a firearm in a crime of violence, and Hobbs Act robbery. If convicted, they each face a mandatory minimum of 32 years in prison with a maximum sentence that could carry life behind bars. However, federal sentences are often less than the maximum penalties imposed.
Acting U.S. Attorney Tracy Doherty-McCormick and Martin Culbreth, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, have led this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric M. Hurt is tasked with prosecuting the case. A full press release can be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
This is a stark reminder that even in times of apparent peace and order, the seeds of organized crime can sprout and threaten communities. The public is urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.
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Key Facts
- State: Virginia
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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