U.S. Department
of Justice
Press Release
Keshena Man Indicted for Burglary & Unlawful Possession of Firearms on Menominee Indian Reservation
For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, Eastern District of Wisconsin
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on December 8, 2020, a federal grand jury indicted Austin A. Kaquatosh (age: 27), formerly of Keshena, for his alleged involvement in a burglary and unlawful possession of firearms during an incident at a residence on the Menominee Indian Reservation. The indictment contains the following counts:
|
COUNT |
CHARGE |
MAXIMUM SENTENCE |
|
One |
Burglary 18 U.S.C. § 1153 and Wis. Stat. § 943.10(am)(a) |
90 months in prison |
|
Two |
Felon in Possession of a Firearm 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2) |
120 months in prison |
If convicted, in addition to the maximum imprisonment terms listed above, Kaquatosh would face fines and a term of supervised release.
According to the indictment, on or about June 9, 2020, Kaquatosh entered a residence without permission and stole several items, including firearms. In doing so, Kaquatosh allegedly possessed a firearm despite knowing he was prohibited from doing so.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://go.usa.gov/xpBrs
The Menominee Tribal Police Department investigated the case, which Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier will prosecute.
An indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For Additional Information Contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales
414-297-1700
Updated December 10, 2020
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