Shreveport Reporter

Three men who engaged in a crime spree across multiple states have been sentenced to lengthy federal prison terms, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. Each defendant pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery and possessing a firearm during a crime of violence.

United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. handed down the following sentences:

- Evan Aaron Ard, 22, of Hammond: 123 months in prison.

- Jaylon Deshon Brumfield, 25, of Lake Charles: 120 months in prison.

- Taurus Terrell Finley, 22, of Hammond: 131 months in prison.

Each defendant will also serve five years of supervised release following their incarceration.

The defendants were charged with conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery and possessing a firearm during a crime of violence related to a series of robberies committed between April 14 and April 27, 2022. During this period, Ard, Brumfield, and Finley conspired to take property from various businesses and individuals by force or threat. Among their targets was Bordertown Travel and its cashier. The defendants admitted using firearms during the robbery to facilitate the theft.

Their criminal activities included stealing vehicles and firearms, robbing convenience stores, and holding individuals at gunpoint. The spree concluded after the robbery of a store in Vinton, Louisiana when they attempted to flee from police in a stolen vehicle. Their escape ended with police deploying spike strips followed by a foot chase that led to their apprehension.

“These three defendants left many victims frightened and scarred by the threats of gun violence and robbery committed against them,” said United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “They had no care for others’ property or life as they made their way across three states committing these robberies.”

Lyonel Myrthil, Special Agent in Charge of FBI New Orleans stated: “For twelve days, this trio terrorized victims at multiple gas stations and convenience stores.” He added that the FBI appreciates its local and state partners for helping end the crime spree early.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Casey Richmond.