United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg has announced a new 16-count federal indictment against seven individuals linked to a series of crimes over four years, including drug trafficking and armed robberies culminating in a double homicide on April 10 and 11, 2024. The third superseding indictment charges the defendants with various federal offenses.
The charges include drug conspiracy, conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, Hobbs Act robbery, brandishing a firearm during a robbery, attempted Hobbs Act robbery, possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, carjacking causing death, kidnapping causing death, use of a firearm causing death, arson, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of firearms by a convicted felon.
Previously charged individuals Jordanish Torres Garcia (28), Giovany Crespo Hernandez (27), and Dereck Alexis Rodriguez Bonilla (21) were implicated in the carjacking resulting in death and other related crimes. The new indictment consolidates these charges for one trial covering years of criminal activities.
"An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law," stated the announcement. "Every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until proven guilty."
On January 15, 2025, Kevin Ocasio Justiniano (27) pleaded guilty to federal charges from the April 11 events as well as drug and firearms charges from August 2022. He admitted to participating in carjacking resulting in death and other crimes related to drug trafficking. His plea agreement revealed his involvement in distributing fentanyl and cocaine between May and August 2022 while carrying an automatic firearm.
Ocasio Justiniano's participation included planning the carjacking with Torres Garcia to rob K.A. of $170,000 in drug proceeds. He received $60,000 for his role. On April 11, he bought lighter fluid near Crespo Hernandez’s home where K.A. planned to collect the proceeds before being attacked.
This case is under investigation by multiple agencies including the FBI and several Sheriff's Offices with prosecution led by Assistant United States Attorneys Dana Hill and Michael Felicetta.