Man Sentenced to Prison for Attempting to Burn Sweepstakes Business in Spring Lake

WILMINGTON, N.C. – An Autryville man was sentenced yesterday to 30 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and ordered to make restitution on a charge of Malicious Damage to Property Used in Commerce, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(i). 

According to the indictment and statements at the sentencing hearing, Joshua Ray Powell, 27, of Autryville, and his brother Justin Powell, aiding and abetting each other, attempted to destroy by fire the Skills Gaming Center, located at 14260 NC 210 South, in Spring Lake, North Carolina.  Joshua Powell jumped a fence and doused the exterior of the building with gasoline.  After making a gasoline trail from the building, he ignited the fire.  Despite these efforts, the building was not ultimately destroyed.  When confronted later, Joshua Powell admitted to his role in the fire.

The charges against Justin Powell remain pending.  An indictment is merely an accusation.  A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Michael F. Easley, Jr., the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement. The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  Assistant United States Attorney William M. Gilmore represents the United States.

Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:20-CR-245-1D(2).