New York Man Sentenced for Targeting Asian Business Owners in Multi-State Burglary Scheme

Federal Court Hands Down 33-Month Prison Sentence for Role in Criminal Conspiracy

NEWARK, N.J. – In a federal courtroom in Newark today, James Hurt, a 48-year-old New York resident, received a 33-month prison sentence for his involvement in a burglary ring that specifically targeted Asian and Asian-American small business owners across several states. U.S. District Judge Evelyn Padin delivered the sentence following Hurt's earlier guilty plea to a charge of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property.

From December 2, 2016, to March 20, 2019, Hurt, along with accomplices, orchestrated and executed a series of burglaries aimed at the homes of Asian small business proprietors in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. The criminals focused on acquiring large amounts of cash, expensive jewelry, and other valuable items from their victims, subsequently transporting these stolen goods across state lines.

The sentence also includes three years of supervised release, during which Hurt will be monitored to prevent further criminal activity. This case highlights ongoing efforts by federal authorities to address targeted crimes against specific community groups, ensuring justice and attempting to deter similar future offenses.