• WHO: Marterrio Armstrong and Jacam’Ron McIntosh
  • WHAT: Sentenced for armed carjacking and robbery
  • WHERE: Memphis, Tennessee
  • WHEN: Carjacking occurred November 24, 2024
  • STATUS: Armstrong sentenced to 8.5 years, McIntosh to 13 years

Two men have been sentenced to a combined total of over 21 years in federal prison for their roles in an armed carjacking and robbery involving nine construction workers in Memphis, Tennessee.

Marterrio Armstrong, 21, of Memphis, Tennessee, received a sentence of eight and one-half years, while Jacam’Ron McIntosh, 21, of Oxford, Mississippi, was sentenced to 13 years in prison. The sentences were handed down by a federal judge.

What Happened

According to evidence presented in court, the incident occurred on November 24, 2024. Memphis Police Department officers responded to a robbery report in Memphis. A group of nine construction workers was in the process of packing their belongings after completing a residential construction project when Armstrong and McIntosh allegedly approached them with firearms drawn.

Authorities stated that Armstrong and McIntosh pointed their weapons at the victims, made threatening statements, and demanded their property. While Armstrong reportedly remained outside with the nine workers, McIntosh is alleged to have entered the residence and brought a tenth victim outside at gunpoint. The defendants are accused of searching the victims’ pockets, taking their wallets, cell phones, money, and keys. They then allegedly drove away in one of the victims' Nissan Maxima.

Police reported that less than an hour after the armed carjacking, officers tracked one of the stolen cell phones to a Memphis residence. There, they located the Nissan Maxima, reportedly hidden by trash cans in a carport. Inside the residence, officers found Armstrong and the stolen property. McIntosh was also located in the house, allegedly hiding in the attic, along with a Glock 19 pistol, a Romania Arms Mini Draco pistol, and a wallet reportedly taken from a victim during the robbery.

The Charges Explained

While the specific charges were not itemized in the announcement, the sentences were delivered in connection with an "armed carjacking" and "robbery." Generally, armed carjacking involves taking a motor vehicle from another person by force and violence or by intimidation, while possessing a firearm. Robbery typically refers to taking money or property from another person by force or threat of force. Federal statutes often enhance penalties when a firearm is used during the commission of these crimes, particularly if violence is involved or specific federal jurisdictions are met, such as interstate commerce implications or the use of federal property.

How These Cases Move Through Court

Federal criminal cases, such as the one against Armstrong and McIntosh, typically begin with an investigation by federal agencies like the ATF and local law enforcement. If sufficient evidence is gathered, prosecutors may present the case to a grand jury, which decides whether to issue an indictment, formally bringing charges. Following an indictment, defendants are arraigned, where they are informed of the charges and enter a plea. Discovery then allows both sides to exchange information. Many federal cases are resolved through plea agreements, where a defendant pleads guilty, often in exchange for a lesser sentence or charges. If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial. If convicted, either through a plea or trial, a judge determines the sentence based on federal sentencing guidelines, which consider factors such as the severity of the crime and the defendant's criminal history.

Context & Background

The case is part of the Criminal Division's Violent Crime Initiative in Memphis, a joint effort between the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Tennessee and local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. This initiative aims to address violent crime in Memphis by utilizing federal laws to prosecute violent offenders, including those involved in gang-related activities. Such collaborative efforts are designed to leverage resources and legal frameworks across different governmental levels to tackle serious offenses like armed robbery and carjacking.

Recognizing and Reporting Robbery

If you witness a robbery or are a victim of one, it is crucial to prioritize your safety. Report the incident to law enforcement as soon as it is safe to do so. Provide as many details as possible, including descriptions of suspects, vehicles, and the direction of travel. For emergencies, always call 911. Federal crimes can also be reported to the FBI through their public access line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).

What Happens Next

Following sentencing, individuals convicted in federal court typically begin serving their prison terms. Defendants may have the option to appeal their convictions or sentences to a higher court, depending on the legal grounds available to them.