A 21-year-old Missouri woman, Jakiaya T. McCoy, is facing a string of federal charges following a robbery incident at an Edwardsville Best Buy, according to a recent indictment. McCoy, from Florissant, Missouri, has been charged by a federal grand jury with two counts of transportation of a stolen vehicle, one count of interference with commerce by robbery, and one count of unlawful possession of a machinegun. The U.S. Attorney's Office released the indictment which details the allegations related to events occurring in December 2023 and November 2023.
In a statement released by U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe, she emphasized the office’s commitment to "reducing violent crime throughout the Metro East and southern Illinois by holding offenders accountable for their criminal acts." The charges stem from an incident on Dec. 14, 2023, where McCoy allegedly participated in a forceful robbery at Best Buy, making away with goods including Apple iPads and hoverboards. Moreover, McCoy faces allegations of transporting two stolen vehicles, described as a 2013 Kia Optima and a 2018 Chrysler 300, in Madison County.
Said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jermaine Deans from the FBI, "No person or business should feel threatened by individuals who create chaos, spread fear, and have no regard for people or property." The FBI Metro East Safe Streets Task Force, along with several local law enforcement agencies, played a key role in the investigation that led to these charges. This collaboration underscores the ongoing efforts by federal and local agencies to combat crimes that underlie the safety and security of communities and businesses alike.
The indictment also accuses McCoy of possessing a Glock pistol with a switch—an unlawful machinegun conversion device. If convicted on these charges, McCoy faces significant prison time. The interference with commerce by robbery carries a sentence of up to 20 years, transportation of a stolen vehicle is punishable by up to 10 years, and unlawful possession of a machinegun can also lead up to 10 years in prison. However, an indictment is not a conviction, and McCoy remains innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. She is scheduled to be arraigned at the federal courthouse in East St. Louis on July 8, ensuring her right to due process as dictated by law.
The FBI Springfield Field Office, Glen Carbon Police Department, Sunset Hills, Missouri, Police Department, and Wood River Police Department were recognized for their contributions in the resolution of this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Reppert is tasked with prosecuting the case. The community now watches as the wheels of justice begin to turn in what stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts to enforce the rule of law and maintain public safety.
