Federal and International, Law and Order

Two Men Charged in Criminal Complaint with Robbery


Hammond, IN-(ENEWSPF)- Darren Bell, 19 and Altonio Benson, 27, both of Detroit, Michigan, were charged in a criminal complaint with robbery affecting interstate commerce for the robbery of a jewelry store in Hobart, Indiana, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch. 

The criminal complaint alleges that at approximately 7:05 pm on January 25, 2019, three individuals participated in the robbery of a jewelry store in Hobart, Indiana, while the store was open to customers.  At least two individuals smashed display cases with hammers to take jewelry, and the individuals fled the store with approximately $803, 000 in jewelry.  Bell and Benson were apprehended a short time later. 

U.S. Attorney Kirsch said, “Brazen robberies such as this case commands a swift response from law enforcement.  I want to commend all our law enforcement partners for their work in investigating this case.  We will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute these type of crimes in this District.” 

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that a criminal complaint is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty in court.

If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the judge after a consideration of federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Gang Response Investigative Team and Hobart Police Department.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Padilla.

This is a release from the United States Department of Justice.


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