News Release
U.S. Department of Justice
Peter F. Neronha
United States Attorney
District of Rhode Island

July 20, 2011

PROVIDENCE MAN FACES UP TO LIFE IN FEDERAL PRISON ON HOBBS ACT ROBBERY & FIREARM CHARGES IN ALLEGED ROBBERY OF WEST END RESTAURANT OWNER

PROVIDENCE, R.I. - A Providence man could face up to life in federal prison after a grand jury indicted him today on charges of Hobbs Act robbery; being a felon in possession of a firearm; and the use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence in connection with the armed robbery and assault of a West End restaurant owner, announced United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha.

 Alphonso D. Johnson, 37, who is presently in state custody, was named in a three-count federal Indictment returned Wednesday in connection with the alleged robbery and assault April 20, 2011, of the owner of Andreas Restaurant. The Indictment alleges that Johnson, armed with a .25 caliber pistol, assaulted and robbed the restaurant owner of $4,354. 

If convicted of Hobbs Act robbery, Johnson faces up to 20 years imprisonment followed by up to 3 years of supervised release; 10 years imprisonment and up to 3 years supervised release for being a felon in possession of a firearm; and 7 years up to life imprisonment for use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence – to be served consecutive to all other sentences imposed.

An Indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard W. Rose.

The matter was investigated by the Providence Police Department with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

 

Contact: 401-709-5357
USARI.Media@usdoj.gov