Show-Me State Times

A Phelps County, Missouri man admitted to a carjacking at knifepoint and a burglary of a gun store in court on Thursday. Martavious Jones, 19, pleaded guilty to one charge of carjacking and another of stealing a firearm from a federally licensed dealer.

Jones confessed that on September 11, 2022, he and an accomplice broke into a Rolla gun store by shattering a window. The duo stole four handguns, including an AR-style pistol, along with substantial quantities of ammunition and firearm accessories. Two of the stolen guns were later discovered in a bag near Jones' residence.

In addition to the burglary, Jones also confessed to a carjacking incident that took place on March 1, 2023. In this instance, Jones requested a ride from a man driving a 2013 Nissan Altima in Rolla. After the driver agreed and they were en route, Jones brandished a large knife and held it against the driver's throat. He demanded the driver's keys and instructed him to exit the vehicle. Upon seizing control of the car, Jones also took the driver's cell phone but promised to discard it out of the window as he drove away. Although he did drop the cell phone as promised, he also inadvertently dropped his own phone. Police later spotted him driving the stolen vehicle; however, he abandoned it and attempted to escape on foot, leaving behind his wallet and knife.

Jones is set for sentencing on August 21. The carjacking charge could result in up to 15 years in prison or a fine up to $250,000 or both penalties combined. The theft charge could lead to up to 10 years in prison or a $250,000 fine or both.

The investigation was conducted by the Rolla Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives while Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Szczucinski is leading the prosecution.