A federal grand jury has indicted Joseph Anthony Kingston, a 27-year-old from West Valley City, Utah, on charges of carjacking. The indictment follows an alleged incident in which Kingston reportedly threatened a victim with a weapon and forced the individual to drive him out of a police containment area.
The charges stem from events that occurred on April 30, 2025. Officers from the West Valley City Police Department responded to a call for assistance at a residence in West Valley City. Upon arrival, they discovered Kingston had an active felony warrant and was prohibited from possessing a weapon. As officers arrived, Kingston fled on foot. Despite efforts involving drones and K9 units, he was not immediately located.
Approximately 20 minutes later, police received reports of a carjacking from an adult male working in the vicinity of the police search area. The victim reported finding Kingston inside his work truck upon returning to it. According to the victim's account, Kingston brandished a knife and instructed him to "drive" and "go," facilitating his escape from the containment zone. After passing through the area, Kingston allegedly stole medical supplies and food before leaving the vehicle.
Later that day, West Valley City Police Officers apprehended Kingston following another foot pursuit. At his arrest, he was allegedly found with items taken from the truck.
Kingston is scheduled for an initial court appearance on May 29, 2025, at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in Salt Lake City.
Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti announced these developments. The case is being handled by an FBI Task Force Officer alongside local police authorities and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carlos A. Esqueda.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, aiming to combat illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations while protecting communities from violent crime.
An indictment serves as an allegation; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court.
