Members Of Violent Robbery Organization Sentenced for Robberies in Florida
U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Kovachevich today sentenced Shamar Lajuan Thomas (26, Clearwater), a/k/a “Baby,” to 35 years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit robbery, robbery, and using or carrying a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime. A federal jury found Thomas guilty on October 11, 2018. Thomas was the last member of the Polk County-based criminal organization to be convicted of conducting armed robberies of other drug dealers.
Photo/Charles Thompson
According to evidence presented at trial, from at least April 2007, and continuing through July 20, 2017, Marion Dwight, Jr. conspired with Thomas and others to commit multiple armed robberies and burglaries of several local drug dealers. During each of the incidents, they discharged or brandished firearms. To date, the FBI has identified at least 14 armed robberies and 4 armed burglaries that were committed by Dwight and his co-conspirators.
In June 2016, Thomas and his co-conspirator, Fredrick James Burney, Jr. a/k/a “Frido,” forced their way inside of a home in Lakeland in search of narcotics and cash. While inside, they held a male victim at gunpoint, shot at a female victim, and stole cash and a firearm from the victims. During the robbery, Thomas physically attacked the woman and repeatedly hit her in the head with his firearm, causing her to bleed profusely.
Seven others have pleaded guilty to various offenses. Each faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lisa M. Thelwell and James Muench.
