United States Attorney David Metcalf has reported the arrest and indictment of Azzubayr Ibn Abdul Josey, a 23-year-old resident of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Josey is facing a series of charges including two counts of carjacking, two counts of using and brandishing a firearm in a crime of violence, two counts of Hobbs Act robbery, and one count of possessing a stolen firearm.
On the morning of his arrest, Josey appeared before Magistrate Judge Scott W. Reid for his initial court appearance.
The indictment details multiple events allegedly involving Josey. On November 9, 2024, Josey is accused of carjacking a 2011 Toyota Sienna at gunpoint in Philadelphia. On November 24, 2024, he allegedly committed a second carjacking involving a 2006 Honda Civic. On that same day, he is said to have committed a robbery at a Family Dollar store in West Philadelphia by simulating possession of a firearm. Further charges involve an alleged robbery at a CVS in West Philadelphia on November 25, 2024, again involving a simulated firearm.
Additionally, Josey is charged with possessing a stolen firearm on December 11, 2024.
A conviction on these charges could result in a potential life sentence, with a mandatory minimum of 14 years in prison.
This legal action is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), aimed at reducing violent crime through collaboration between law enforcement and communities. Launched in May 2021, the strategy prioritizes trust-building, supporting violence prevention initiatives, and strategic enforcement.
The investigation involved the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Philadelphia Police Department, with prosecution led by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Eckert and Special Assistant United States Attorney David Osborne.
It's important to note that the charges in the indictment are currently accusations, and every defendant is considered innocent until proven guilty.