A Houston man, Jose Antonio Infante, age 22, is facing federal charges for his alleged involvement in two carjackings, one of which resulted in a victim being shot. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Infante was already in custody on related charges and was scheduled to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard W. Bennett at 10 a.m.
According to the five-count indictment returned on September 16, Infante is accused of using a firearm during a carjacking that took place on June 8. About a week later, he allegedly committed another carjacking with a firearm. During this second incident, authorities say he discharged the weapon and seriously injured the victim.
If convicted, Infante could face up to 15 years in federal prison for the first carjacking and up to 25 years for the second. Convictions on related firearms charges could add an additional seven and ten years, which would have to be served consecutively to any other prison term imposed. He also faces up to 15 years for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Each charge carries possible fines of up to $250,000.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI with assistance from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin R. Martin is prosecuting the case.
"An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law," according to the statement from authorities.
