Grand Forks man faces federal Hobbs Act robbery charge – Grand Forks Herald

GRAND FORKS – A Grand Forks man accused of committing an armed robbery at a gas station is now facing federal charges.

Ian Paul Kramchuck, 20,

was originally charged in court

But. In light of his Hobbs Act theft charge, his district case was dismissed.

Court documents allege that on August 12, Kramchuck committed theft from a business entity engaged in interstate commerce — the essential element that classifies the crime as a Hobbs Act robbery, making it eligible for federal prosecution — against the will of its employees by using actual and threatened violence, violence and fear of injury.

It is generally easy to establish federal jurisdiction for robberies that occur within businesses. Firearms cases, like armed robberies, are often a higher priority for federal prosecution.

According to the affidavit filed in Kramchuck’s original district-level case, he entered Petro Serve USA, located at 1220 University Ave., armed with a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson pistol.

He allegedly threatened an employee with a weapon and demanded money from the cash register. His efforts were thwarted by employees who removed the weapon and restrained Kramchuck until police arrived, according to a press release issued by Grand Forks police after the incident.

Kramchuck’s federal arraignment and initial appearance are scheduled for Nov. 4 at 11 a.m.