In a recent federal court case, Perry Sean Lohnes, a 38-year-old resident of Pueblo, Colorado, was sentenced to 11 years in prison. Lohnes was found guilty of armed robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. The incident took place at a fast food restaurant in Pueblo where Lohnes approached the counter, ordered food, and later stole money from the cash register. When an employee confronted him, Lohnes pulled out a handgun and pointed it at the employee, before fleeing the scene. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado highlighted this case as part of their commitment to prosecuting violent criminals and ensuring the safety of the community.
Case Details
Defendant Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal Prison
Robbery and Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence
Incident at Fast Food Restaurant in Pueblo
Description of Defendant’s Actions
Prosecution’s Response
Statement from United States Attorney and FBI Denver
The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado has announced that Perry Sean Lohnes, a 38-year-old resident of Pueblo, has been sentenced to 11 years in federal prison for robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. The case stems from an incident that occurred on April 11, 2022, at a fast food restaurant on East 8th Street in Pueblo. Lohnes, who was wearing a camouflage-style jacket and facemask, went to the counter to order food before sitting down to eat. Later, he returned to the counter and began taking money out of the register. When an employee confronted him, Lohnes pulled out a handgun from his pocket and pointed it at the employee, threatening her to “get back.” He then took cash from the register and fled towards a local park.
The prosecution strongly condemns Lohnes’ actions and emphasizes the importance of holding violent criminals accountable. United States Attorney Cole Finegan stated, “We are taking an aggressive approach to prosecuting violent criminals in Pueblo. This case is one example of excellent work from our law enforcement partners working together to make Pueblo a safer community. This type of violence will not be tolerated.” FBI Denver Acting Special Agent in Charge Leonard Carollo echoed these sentiments, stating, “This sentence represents the unwavering teamwork between FBI Denver and our law enforcement partners like the Pueblo Police Department and the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office to ensure dangerous criminals are no longer a threat to the public.”
Law Enforcement Involvement
Assistance from Pueblo Police Department and Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office
Investigation by FBI Denver
Handling of Prosecution by U.S. Attorney’s Office
The successful resolution of this case would not have been possible without the collaboration and assistance of the Pueblo Police Department and the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office. The diligent efforts of these local law enforcement agencies played a crucial role in apprehending Lohnes and ensuring that justice was served. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Denver also played a key role in investigating the case, working alongside their local counterparts to gather evidence and build a solid case against the defendant.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office diligently handled the prosecution of this case. The Violent Crime and Immigration Enforcement Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office worked tirelessly to present a strong and compelling case against Lohnes, ensuring that justice was served and the safety of the community was prioritized.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN)
Overview of PSN Program
Goals and Strategies
Implementation of Strategy in This Case
This case is part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, a collaborative effort that brings together law enforcement agencies at all levels and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence. The overarching goal of the PSN program is to make neighborhoods safer for everyone by targeting violent criminals and enforcing tougher sentences for those who engage in firearms-related offenses.
The PSN program is grounded in several core principles, which include fostering trust and legitimacy in communities, supporting community-based organizations that work towards preventing violence, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the effectiveness of these efforts. In the case of Perry Sean Lohnes, the implementation of the PSN strategy involved a comprehensive investigation by the FBI Denver and close cooperation between local law enforcement agencies, resulting in the successful conviction and sentencing of the defendant.
Sentencing and Judge’s Decision
Sentencing by Judge Daniel D. Domenico
Length of Sentence
Importance of Tough Sentences for Violent Criminals
Judge Daniel D. Domenico presided over the sentencing of Perry Sean Lohnes and determined the appropriate punishment for his crimes. After considering the evidence presented by the prosecution and taking into account the severity of the offenses, Judge Domenico sentenced Lohnes to 11 years in federal prison. This sentence serves as a strong message to individuals who engage in violent criminal behavior, emphasizing the importance of holding them accountable and deterring others from committing similar acts.
Tough sentences for violent criminals play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of communities. By imposing significant penalties for crimes involving firearms and violence, the justice system sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. These sentences not only protect the public from individuals who pose a threat but also serve as a deterrent to others who may be considering engaging in similar criminal conduct.
Contact Information
Contact for Public Affairs Specialist
Updated Date of Press Release
Contact Information for District of Colorado
For further information or media inquiries regarding this case, please contact Deborah Takahara, Public Affairs Specialist at deborah.takahara@usdoj.gov. The press release regarding Perry Sean Lohnes’ sentencing was updated on March 3, 2023.
For additional information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado or to get in touch with their representatives, please refer to the contact information provided by the district.