Two men from central Ohio have been sentenced for their involvement in a series of armed robberies and a subsequent shootout with police on I-70. Faisal M. Darod, 25, from Columbus, received a 300-month prison sentence, while Aden Abdullahi Jama, 21, from Reynoldsburg, was sentenced to 156 months.
U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker commented on the impact of these crimes: “Violent crimes like these reverberate throughout the community. The victims of the armed robberies remain traumatized from being held at gunpoint and having their lives threatened." He added that gun violence results in severe consequences including long prison terms.
Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division stated: “The gun violence committed by these defendants altered the lives of many victims, especially the hero Columbus Division of Police Officer who was wounded during the harrowing gun battle.” He acknowledged law enforcement's efforts in stopping the crime spree.
Columbus Police Chief Elaine R. Bryant remarked: “This case serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers brave officers of the Division face every day in the line of duty."
In spring 2023, Darod started obtaining firearms for another individual involved in these crimes. By June 2023, they were using a Glock handgun with an extended magazine for several robberies.
On June 21, 2023, Darod participated as a lookout during a robbery at GameStop on Hilliard-Rome Road after initially planning to rob a bank that was closed at that time.
On July 3rd and July 5th respectively, Darod was involved in robberies at Auto Gallery and Fifth Third Bank locations. During one incident post-robbery at Baymont Inn and Suites, he recorded videos showcasing stolen cash.
On July 6th an armed robbery occurred at Byers Imports followed by another planned bank heist where they were tracked via GPS by Whitehall police detectives leading to an eventual high-speed chase on I-70.
During this pursuit reaching speeds over 125 mph near rush hour traffic resulted ultimately ending when vehicle damage forced them to flee on foot which led directly into confrontation between officers resulting serious injury one officer while driver succumbed injuries sustained fire exchange ensuing ambush attempt against authorities responding scene
Darod arrested next evening Columbus searching flights Somalia meanwhile Jama apprehended Chicago O’Hare International Airport attempting reach Turkey ultimate destination same country Both individuals pled guilty October charges related aiding abetting multiple offenses involving use firearms each incident Assistant United States Attorney Noah R Litton Special Assistant David J Bosley represented prosecution Southern District Ohio
