Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has announced the indictment of three men in Lee County on charges related to discharging a weapon into an occupied building or vehicle. The charges are enhanced under Alabama’s Criminal Enterprise Act.
The individuals, Jamaroun Dayshun Satterwhite, Demarious Ross, and Timothy Bell, face four felony counts each for their alleged involvement in the crime. This development follows a joint investigation by the Attorney General’s Office, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lee County District Attorney’s Office.
Attorney General Marshall emphasized the state's commitment to combating gang activity. "The Alabama Legislature has equipped our state with the tools necessary to directly combat gang activity, and today, we are putting those tools into action," he stated. He further warned that those who bring violence to communities will face strong enforcement and tough sentences.
If convicted, each defendant could receive up to 99 years in prison, plus an additional 20 years for firearms possession linked to a Criminal Enterprise.
Marshall acknowledged the cooperation with local law enforcement agencies. “The indictments handed down by the Lee County Grand Jury are a testament to the hard work of our investigators,” said Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones. He reiterated their commitment to identifying and apprehending individuals involved in organized gang activities.
Lee County District Attorney Jessica Ventiere expressed gratitude for the collaboration with state and local partners. “These indictments demonstrate our shared commitment to holding offenders accountable and ensuring justice for our community,” she said.
In 2023, Attorney General Marshall collaborated with Senator Will Barfoot and Representative Allen Treadaway to advocate for the Criminal Enterprise Act. This legislation aims to enhance penalties for crimes benefiting criminal enterprises while imposing mandatory consecutive sentences for firearm-related offenses.