A Kyle resident appeared in federal court following an indictment on several charges related to armed robberies that occurred in Austin during June and July. Court documents state that Yael Williams Jr., 38, who has a prior felony conviction, is accused of using a firearm during robberies at a Subway restaurant and two 7-11 stores. The indictment claims Williams threatened store employees with a .22 caliber revolver, obtaining cash and other items through force or threats.
Williams faces three counts under the Hobbs Act for robbery, one count for discharging a firearm during a violent crime, two counts for brandishing a firearm during such crimes, and one count for possession of a firearm by a felon. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge if Williams is convicted, taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and relevant statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas announced the charges. The investigation is being conducted by the Austin Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Buie is handling prosecution.
“An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.”
