A federal grand jury has indicted Jack Amadeus LaSota, 34, of Fairbanks, Alaska, on charges of possessing firearms and ammunition while being a fugitive from justice. The announcement was made by Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, alongside Acting Special Agent in Charge Amanda M. Koldjeski from the FBI's Baltimore Field Office.
The indictment alleges that LaSota had several firearms in his possession, including a GM6 Lynx .50 caliber rifle and a black HS Produkt model Hellcat 9x19mm handgun, along with hundreds of rounds of ammunition. At the time of possession, LaSota was reportedly aware of his status as a fugitive from justice and was therefore prohibited by law from having firearms or ammunition.
If found guilty, LaSota could face up to 15 years in prison. However, sentences for federal crimes are often less than the maximum penalties due to considerations made by a federal district court judge based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
U.S. Attorney Hayes expressed appreciation for the efforts of the FBI, Allegany County State’s Attorney’s Office, and Allegany County Sheriff’s Office in their investigation work. She also acknowledged Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared M. Beim for prosecuting the case.
For further details about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office and its community resources, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
