Ensley Man Sentenced For Carjacking And Firearm Charges

BIRMINGHAM, AL — A federal judge sentenced an Ensley man Friday to 12 years in prison on carjacking and possession of a firearm charges. Darise Cortez Austin, 29, pleaded guilty to the charges in February.

According to the plea agreement, Austin, while armed with a gun, approached a Birmingham victim outside of the victim’s apartment. While pointing the firearm at the victim, Austin took the victim’s keys, wallet and a Taurus .357 caliber pistol. Austin then stole the victim’s 2007 Nissan Altima and left the residence.

Austin used the victim’s debit card at several different places, then attempted to elude an Alabama State Trooper in Lawrence County, Alabama, according to the plea agreement. While eluding the Alabama State Trooper at 102 mph, Austin wrecked the vehicle and law enforcement detained and arrested him.

"This sentence is another great example of our office and law enforcement partners working together to remove another violent criminal from our communities," U.S Attorney Jay Town said. "Violent criminals who plague our streets will continue to be targets for federal prosecution where the debt to society is full price. No discounts. No parole."