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

June 18, 2012

Government Files Notice of Intent to Seek Death Penalty in Matter of Jason W. Pleau

PROVIDENCE, R.I. –Notice was filed with the U.S. District Court in Providence today that the federal government intends to seek the death penalty in the matter of Jason W. Pleau, 34, of Providence, R.I., if convicted for his alleged participation in the conspiracy, and the armed robbery and shooting of David D. Main of Woonsocket, R.I.  Specifically, the United States will seek a sentence of death for count three of the indictment against Pleau which charges the defendant with possessing, using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence that caused the death of David Main, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c) and (j).

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.

Protocol for capital cases, including the process by which the government determines whether or not to seek the death penalty in a particular case, is contained in the U.S. Attorney’s Manual which may be viewed on the Department of Justice’s website at http://www.justice.gov/usao/eousa/foia_reading_room/usam/title9/10mcrm.htm . 

 

 

###

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