Three men are facing federal charges for a drive-by shooting that happened nearly one year ago in St. Johns, Florida, the Department of Justice announced Wednesday.
U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg said Nathaniel Thomas Hatcher, III, 28, and James Toney, 20, both from Jacksonville, participated in a drive-by shooting that occurred on I-95 on October 17, 2023.
Both men are facing charges of committing a drive-by shooting and discharging a firearm in connection with a crime of violence.
Hatcher also faces charges of conspiring to distribute 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana, conspiring to straw-purchase firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, making materially false statements during the purchases of firearms, conspiring to commit money laundering, witness tampering, and obstruction of justice. Hatcher faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 20 years with a maximum penalty of two life sentences plus 115 years in prison.
Toney is also facing charges of conspiring to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana. Toney faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment plus 45 years.
The indictment also includes charges for a third individual, Al’Donta Easterling, 26, Jacksonville, for conspiring to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana, possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Easterling faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years imprisonment with a maximum penalty of up to life plus 60 years.
All three men are being held pending trial, which is set for Nov. 4, 2024.
Shooting incidents can result in severe injuries or tragic outcomes, leaving victims and their families grappling with physical, emotional, and financial burdens. At Ovadia Law Group, we understand the complexities of shooting cases and are dedicated to providing expert legal representation to those affected. Our experienced attorneys meticulously investigate each case to determine the cause and extent of the negligence involved. We work tirelessly to hold responsible parties accountable and secure the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering. If you’ve been involved in a shooting incident, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. Call Ovadia Law Group at 1-800-674-9396 for a free consultation, and let us help you pursue justice and recovery.
Source: yahoo news
