Two Men to Stand Trial for Armed Carjacking at Guam Supermarket

John Peter Babauta, Jr. and Timothy Tedtaotao Serebour are set to face trial on May 22 for their alleged involvement in an armed carjacking incident at the Oka Pay-Less supermarket in Guam on March 19. The two men have been charged with multiple felony counts, including armed carjacking and drug possession.

According to court documents, Babauta and Serebour threatened a man and his family at the supermarket, forcing them out of their truck at gunpoint. Babauta then allegedly drove away in the stolen vehicle. Police later located the truck and apprehended both suspects.

Upon his arrest, Babauta admitted to smoking methamphetamine prior to the carjacking. Serebour was found in possession of illegal drugs when taken into custody. In addition to the armed carjacking charges, Serebour faces counts of possession of a firearm without an ID, drug possession, and second-degree robbery, with special allegations of using a deadly weapon.

Why this matters: The audacious daylight carjacking at a busy supermarket has raised concerns about public safety and drug-related crime in Guam. The outcome of this high-profile case could have implications for how authorities tackle violent offenses and the island's drug epidemic going forward.

As the May 22 trial date approaches, attorneys for Babauta and Serebour are preparing their defenses. Babauta's lawyer has indicated plans to file a motion to sever the cases, while Serebour has asserted his right to a speedy trial. Prosecutors are also drafting plea agreement offers that, if accepted by the defendants, could potentially avert the need for a trial.

The upcoming court proceedings will determine the fate of Babauta and Serebour, who remain in custody on the serious felony accusations against them. The trial is expected to bring further details to light about the carjacking incident that "put the life of a man and his family in danger," as described in the charges. With the suspects apprehended and facing justice, authorities aim to send a strong message that such audacious criminal acts will not be tolerated in the community.

Key Takeaways

• Two men, Babauta and Serebour, charged with armed carjacking in Guam on March 19.
• Babauta admitted to smoking meth before the incident; Serebour had illegal drugs.
• Trial set for May 22; lawyers preparing defenses, including a motion to sever cases.
• Prosecutors drafting plea deals that could avert trial; authorities aim to send strong message.
• Incident raised concerns about public safety and drug-related crime in Guam.