Maddesyn Jones, 22, of Copenhagen, New York, has been charged by complaint with assaulting, resisting, or impeding an officer engaged in the performance of official duties at the Alexandria Bay Port of Entry, according to a July 16 announcement by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Acting Special Agent in Charge of the HSI Buffalo Field Office Anthony Patrone.
Authorities said Jones defied lawful commands and fled from law enforcement. During the pursuit, she lost control of her vehicle and ended up in a ditch before being taken into custody. Jones was arraigned on June 25 in Syracuse before United States Magistrate Judge Miroslav Lovric.
“In the Northern District of New York, we have zero tolerance for those who endanger federal officers by refusing lawful commands and fleeing from them,” said First Assistant United States Attorney John Sarcone. “As alleged, this defendant’s actions represent conduct that is unaligned with a nation of laws, and Ms. Jones will be held accountable in the court of law.”
HSI Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone said, “The brazen assault, resistance, and obstruction alleged in this complaint strike at the heart of the rule of law at our border. HSI Syracuse, working alongside our law enforcement partners, remains relentless in defending our officers, securing our ports of entry, and ensuring that those who threaten the safety and integrity of our border are brought to justice.”
The charge against Jones carries a maximum sentence of eight years in prison as well as possible supervised release for up to three years and a fine up to $250,000. The charge is an accusation; Jones is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. Sentencing would be determined by a judge based on applicable statutes and guidelines if there is a conviction.
HSI and U.S. Customs and Border Protection are investigating the case while Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica N. Carbone is prosecuting it.
The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York covers 32 counties over more than 30,000 square miles with about 3.4 million residents; it prosecutes federal criminal cases as part of its work within the Department of Justice; maintains offices including Albany and Syracuse; includes around 50 assistant attorneys plus support staff; supports community wellness through outreach efforts, all according to its official website.