The streets of Clearwater just got a little bit darker. Two local men have been indicted for pulling a gun on a convenience store clerk and making off with who knows what.
Alex Jones (31, Pinellas County) and Jhakheem Smith (24, Pinellas County) are accused of robbing the convenience store in the Clearwater area on November 8, 2023. The two men allegedly brandished a firearm during the robbery, striking the victim in the back of the head with it.
According to the indictment, Jones and Smith forced the victim to the back of the store at gunpoint before fleeing the scene. This brazen act of violence has left the community shaken.
The indictment charges Jones and Smith with Hobbs Act robbery, conspiracy to commit that robbery, and one count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence during the commission of the robbery. If convicted of the robbery offenses, each faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison for each charge. If convicted of the firearm offense, each faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Clearwater Police Department, and the Largo Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman is leading the prosecution.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in our communities. By bringing together law enforcement and community leaders, PSN is working to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
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Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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