TACOMA — A Washington state man who authorities say shot and killed two masked, armed intruders at his marijuana grow operation last year has been indicted on federal drug and gun charges.
Jeremy Peter Capodanno pleaded not guilty at a Thursday court hearing.
U.S. District Judge Ronald Leighton ordered Capodanno held in custody, The Seattle Times reported. The judge scheduled a detention hearing for April 23. Trial was set for June 21.
Police said the 36-year-old shot and killed two men who broke into his Puyallup garage last Dec. 6, the day marijuana possession by adults became legal under state law. His 7-year-old son was home at the time.
The Pierce County prosecutor’s office determined that Capodanno acted in self-defense in the shootings.
“Regardless of whether you are operating an illegal enterprise, you still have the right to use deadly force in defense of yourself or others or your property,” Prosecutor Mark Lindquist said.
A federal indictment unsealed Thursday accuses Capodanno of manufacturing marijuana as well as firing and possessing guns during a drug crime.
Seattle U.S. Attorney Jenny Durkan said Capodanno had the guns to protect his illegal drug business, which brought thieves to his door and jeopardized his son.
It was not clear if Capodanno had an attorney. If convicted he could face at least 15 years. Prosecutors are also seeking to seize his two homes, two cars and his guns.
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