AUSTIN, Texas – In a string of brazen crimes, Yael Williams Jr., 38, a convicted felon from Kyle, has been charged with 7 counts in connection to armed robberies that took place in Austin during June and July.
According to court documents, Williams allegedly used a firearm during robberies at a Subway restaurant and two 7-11 stores in Austin over the summer. The indictment alleges that, in the presence of store employees, Williams obtained U.S. currency and other property by means of actual and threatened force, violence, and fear of injury, by threatening the employees with a .22 caliber revolver.
The charges against Williams include three Hobbs Act robberies, one count of discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, two counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm by a felon. If Williams is convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation into Williams’ alleged crimes was conducted by the Austin Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas made the announcement, while Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Buie is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. As the case against Williams moves forward, the prosecution will need to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt in order to secure a conviction.
The alleged crimes committed by Williams are a stark reminder of the dangers faced by store employees and the importance of swift and effective law enforcement action in preventing and responding to violent crimes. The community will be watching as this case unfolds, and the outcome will have significant implications for public safety in Austin and beyond.
In the meantime, Williams will face the full weight of the justice system as he navigates the federal court process. With the possibility of significant prison time looming, Williams’ future hangs in the balance. The people of Austin can take comfort in knowing that law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to bring perpetrators of violent crimes to justice, and that those who engage in such behavior will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
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Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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