Alaska Man Indicted in Maryland for Illegally Possessing Firearms While a Fugitive

Residents of Maryland and Alaska should be aware of a recent federal indictment that underscores the continued cooperation between law enforcement agencies across state lines to address gun-related offenses involving fugitives. A 34-year-old Fairbanks, Alaska resident has been charged in Maryland with illegally possessing multiple firearms and ammunition while on the run from justice.

Jack Amadeus LaSota, who is also known by several aliases including Andrea Phelps and Anne Grimes, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Maryland for unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. The indictment alleges that LaSota was knowingly a fugitive from justice at the time of the offense, which disqualifies an individual from possessing any weapons under federal law. Authorities say LaSota had in his possession a GM6 Lynx .50 caliber rifle, a 9mm Hellcat handgun, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.

If found guilty, LaSota could face up to 15 years in federal prison, although actual sentencing would depend on a judge’s evaluation using federal guidelines. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, with investigative support from the FBI’s Baltimore Field Office, the Allegany County State’s Attorney’s Office, and the Allegany County Sheriff’s Office.

The public should note that the indictment is an allegation and LaSota remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

Article by multiple contributors, based upon information from a press release issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland

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