Feds Take Over Carjacking Case That Led to Death

Federal authorities are taking charge of a carjacking and homicide investigation after it was determined that the victim was specifically targeted, and the incident involved drugs and money. The 31-year-old victim was a Homestead native who tragically died earlier this month in Central Florida.

Four individuals have been charged in connection with the crime including one man who is facing a federal charge of carjacking leading to death. The multi-county investigation determined that the incident was related to drug trafficking and suggests that the victim was individually targeted. The victim was shot several times, and her body was found in a burning car, according to authorities who characterized the murder as “gruesome.”

The investigation is complicated by the fact that the case spans several jurisdictions. The carjacking originally occurred in Seminole County. The victim’s body was discovered in a burning vehicle in Osceola County. And one of the suspect’s vehicles, which was linked to another murder, was found in Orange County. This complexity led federal authorities to take the lead on the case. It is now being pursued by the FBI, DEA, U.S. Marshals, Homeland Security, and Postal Inspectors.

Federal carjacking leading to death statute 

18 U.S.C. § 2119 defines the law when it comes to various carjacking crimes.

Whoever, with intent to cause death or serious bodily harm takes a motor vehicle that has been transported, shipped, or received in interstate or foreign commerce from the person or presence of another by force and violence or by intimidation, or attempts to do so, shall (1) be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than 15 years or both, (2) if serious bodily injury results, be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than 25 years, or both, and (3) if death results, be fined under this title or imprisoned for any number of years up to life, or both or sentenced to death (emphasis added to highlight the 1994 changes to the statute).

For a basic carjacking involving the likelihood of serious injury or death, a defendant charged under the statute cannot be sentenced to more than 15 years behind bars. However, if someone is seriously injured in the carjacking attempt, they can face a sentence of up to 25 years. If, however, death results by any action that occurs during the carjacking, be it intentional or not, the defendant can face a life sentence or even be executed.

In the case mentioned above, the defendant is being accused of intentionally causing the death of the driver whose vehicle he carjacked. He is potentially facing the death penalty in this case. The federal government doesn’t generally involve itself in homicide cases. However, since there is a federal carjacking statute, the prosecution is permitted, and the stakes are high.

Talk to a Tampa, FL Criminal Defense Lawyer Today 

The Matassini Law Firm represents the interests of those charged with serious crimes under federal law. If you are facing federal charges, call our Tampa criminal lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and learn more about how we can help.

Source:

wsvn.com/news/local/florida/federal-officials-investigate-carjacking-and-murder-of-homestead-woman-in-central-florida/