Biography
Melquan Barnett, 28, was charged in Erie, PA with malicious destruction of property by fire/explosives to a building used in interstate commerce. When a group of protestors in Erie turned to violence, Barnett was caught on Facebook Live setting fire to a local coffee shop. His defense said: "Mr. Barnett peacefully participated in a demonstration in Erie to protest what he and other members of the African American community in Erie County see as an unjust system." Sentenced to 60 months federal prison plus $3,295 restitution.
Birth-year evidence
USAO Western Pennsylvania January4,2023 plea announcement reports30 (1992/1993); primary USAO sentencing announcement July28,2023 reports31 (1991/1992); intersection establishes1992 birth year without birthday. June3,2020 original charging announcement additionally reports28 (1991/1992), compatible. Sources: Source 1, Source 2.
Original federal complaint
The June 3, 2020 complaint, No. 1:20-mj-56, charges malicious damage and attempted destruction of property by fire under 18 U.S.C. §844(i), alleging conduct on May 30. The charge label now identifies the offense rather than retelling the incident. The complaint and its supporting affidavit are charging allegations, not a sentencing judgment. The June 1 investigative visit, June 2 fire examination and June 3 sworn filing do not independently establish prison admission or release. Existing later plea and sentencing information is unchanged.
