A Westland man pled guilty to his participation in the 2020 armed robbery of an Albion hydroponics store, as reported by authorities. Andrew Curtis Williams, 27, admitted guilt to offenses including the brandishing of a firearm during the commission of a robbery, alongside conspiracy to commit the same crime, according to a WWJ Newsradio article.
U.S. Attorney Mark Totten emphasized the severity of the crime, stating, "This crime was brazen and incredibly dangerous. No business owner or employee should fear violence at work. Accountability for these crimes will be swift and serious." Williams faces a minimum of seven years up to a potential life sentence for his actions. His companion in the crime, Kyle Lynn Carson, is yet to be sentenced after having already pleaded guilty, as reported by a press release from the U.S. Attorney's Office.
The robbery took place in February 2020, with Williams' role now clearly acknowledged before the law. James Deir, the ATF Special Agent in Charge, condemned the use of illegal firearms during the incident and reinforced the right of every business owner and their employees to work without the dread of violence. "In the end, Williams’ poor choices have consequences," Deir told WWJ Newsradio.
Carson, who also pleaded guilty, confirmed to have assisted Williams in scouting the hydroponics store prior to the robbery and attempted to conceal the stolen goods post-robbery. Deir further stated, "Our community demands better from its members, and it is safer with both men off the streets." The case, which is currently being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy VerHey, as detailed in a press release from the Western District of Michigan U.S. Attorney's Office.
