Joshua Truesdale, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Pennsylvania 2018

SCRANTON – A shocking incident at United States Penitentiary Canaan (USP Canaan) has led to charges against two inmates, Joshua Truesdale, 37, and James Brooks, 34. The duo is accused of conspiracy and assault with a dangerous weapon.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania revealed that on August 13, 2018, Truesdale and Brooks conspired to attack another inmate using a sharpened piece of metal and plastic, known as a ‘shank’.

United States Attorney David J. Freed outlined the charges against the inmates, emphasizing the severity of their alleged actions. The investigation into this assault was jointly conducted by FBI agents and officers at USP Canaan. Assistant United States Attorney Alisan V. Martin is handling the prosecution.

According to federal law, both conspiracy and assault with a deadly weapon carry a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment, 3 years supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Possession of contraband also carries a maximum of 5 years imprisonment, 3 years supervised release, and the same fine. However, actual sentences are subject to individual circumstances, as dictated by federal sentencing statutes and guidelines.

Despite these allegations, all persons charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. The Judge will consider various factors when determining a sentence, including the nature of the offense, the defendant’s history, and public safety concerns.

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