Oakland, Calif. – A man from Northern California has been sentenced to life in prison for his involvement in the shooting death of a federal security guard and the injuring of another. Robert Allen Justus, a part of the anti-government “boogaloo movement,” was convicted last year of murder and attempted murder. He was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers for his role in the attack at the Ronald V. Dellums Federal Building in Oakland in May 2020.
Justus, along with his accomplice Steven Carrillo, drove a van to the guard station where Carrillo opened fire, killing David Patrick Underwood and injuring his partner. Both Justus and Carrillo, who was a U.S. Air Force sergeant at the time, were linked to the far-right movement and planned the attack the day prior.
After Carrillo’s arrest for the shooting death of a sheriff’s deputy in June 2020, Justus turned himself in. He claimed that Carrillo had pressured and threatened him into participating in the attacks. Despite his apology in court, the judge did not believe his statements.
The sentencing brings some closure to the tragic events that unfolded at the federal building in Oakland, shedding light on the dangers of extremist ideologies and their potential for violence. The case underscores the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions and deterring future acts of domestic terrorism.
The families of the victims can now find some solace in the justice served, knowing that those responsible are being held accountable for their heinous crimes. Justus’s sentencing sends a strong message that acts of violence and terrorism will not be tolerated in our society.
As the community continues to heal from the trauma caused by these senseless acts, it is crucial to address the root causes of extremism and work towards building a more inclusive and peaceful society. Education, outreach, and understanding are key in preventing radicalization and promoting unity among all members of our diverse society.