A Tooele County man faces serious charges after a violent incident involving two unsuspecting motorcyclists. The indictment, announced by Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti, accuses Russell Allen of kidnapping, assault, and theft within Indian Country. The motorcyclists were traversing the Skull Valley Indian Reservation in Utah when they were allegedly confronted by Allen and another individual on April 26.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Allen and his accomplice accused the riders of trespassing before allegedly forcing them to the ground, zip-tying their hands, assaulting them, and confiscating their belongings, including the motorcycles. The indictment alleges that the victims were then transported to a remote desert area, released without their possessions, and forced to walk a considerable distance for help. A subsequent search warrant indicated that several of the stolen items have not yet been recovered.
This case is currently under investigation by the FBI Violent Crimes Task Force, with Assistant United States Attorney Sam Pead prosecuting. Allen was charged by complaint on April 28 and made his initial appearance in court on May 7. As the case unfolds, it is important to remember that an indictment is not an affirmation of guilt; Allen remains presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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