A Chicago man, Virgil Gibson, 22, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly carjacking two drivers earlier this year. Gibson faces multiple charges, including two counts of carjacking, three counts of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, one count of robbery, and one count of kidnapping. These serious charges could result in a maximum sentence of life in federal prison.
According to an indictment returned in the U.S. District Court in Chicago, Gibson allegedly stole a Chevrolet Malibu on April 7 and a Kia K5 on April 8. Prosecutors claim he used a firearm during both carjackings and forcibly took the vehicles from the drivers. The indictment details how Gibson brandished a firearm, creating a terrifying situation for the victims as he demanded their vehicles.
In the first incident on April 7, Gibson is accused of stealing a Chevrolet Malibu. The circumstances of this carjacking were particularly alarming, as the victim was forced to surrender their vehicle at gunpoint. Just a day later, on April 8, Gibson allegedly repeated this crime, targeting a driver in a Kia K5. Prosecutors state that during this second carjacking, Gibson went even further by confining the driver against his will and forcing him to wire money.
The severity of these crimes is underscored by the potential penalties Gibson faces. The charges of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence alone carry significant mandatory minimum sentences. Coupled with the counts of carjacking, robbery, and kidnapping, Gibson could spend the rest of his life in federal prison if convicted on all counts.
Gibson is currently in law enforcement custody. His arraignment is scheduled for August 12 in federal court. During this arraignment, Gibson will have the opportunity to enter a plea to the charges against him. The court proceedings will determine the next steps in this case, including whether it will go to trial.
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This case highlights the ongoing issue of carjacking in Chicago, a crime that has seen a troubling increase in recent years. Law enforcement agencies are under pressure to address this spike and bring offenders to justice. The indictment of Gibson represents a significant step in these efforts, aiming to hold accountable those who commit violent crimes and endanger the safety of the community.
