Statement of U.S. Attorney Breon Peace on United States v. Frank James

“Yesterday was a dark day for all of us. But the bright spots of the incredible heroism of our fellow New Yorkers helping each other in a time of crisis, the quick response by our first responders, and the hard work by all of our law enforcement partners that has been ongoing truly shines bright.

Today Frank James has been charged by complaint in Brooklyn Federal Court with one count of violating 18 U.S.C. 1992(a)(7), which prohibits terrorist and other violent attacks against mass transportation systems. Once apprehended, and if convicted, he will face a sentence of up to life imprisonment.

My office is prepared to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:
On April 12, 2022, in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, in the Eastern District of New York, the defendant Frank James did knowingly and without lawful authority and permission commit an act, including the use of a dangerous weapon, with the intent to cause death and serious bodily injury to passengers and MTA employees on the New York City subway system. The government will prove, among other things, that James traveled across a state line in order to commit the offense and transported materials across a state line in aid of the commission of the offense.

We are working closely with all of our law enforcement partners at the Kings County District Attorney’s Office, FBI, NYPD, ATF and the U.S. Marshals Service. My office will use every tool at our disposal to bring this individual to justice, and restore safety and peace of mind to all.”