Sean McKinnon : Accused lookout in Bulger killing pleads guilty, no extra time

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Whitey Bulger prison killing lookout
2. Accused lookout guilty plea Bulger prison killing

Sean McKinnon, the man accused of being a lookout during the prison killing of notorious Boston gangster James “Whitey” Bulger, will not face additional prison time after pleading guilty to lying to federal agents. McKinnon, along with two other inmates, was involved in the 2018 killing at a troubled West Virginia prison. Plea deals for the three were disclosed in May, with sentencing dates set for August and September. McKinnon had previously been released from custody in 2022 after serving time for stealing guns. The Justice Department chose not to seek the death penalty for McKinnon’s co-accused, who were charged with murder and conspiracy.

The Prison Killing of Whitey Bulger: An Overview

In a surprising turn of events, the man accused of being a lookout during the prison killing of notorious Boston gangster James “Whitey” Bulger will not serve additional prison time. Sean McKinnon, the accused, pleaded guilty to a charge of lying to federal agents. The incident took place at a troubled West Virginia prison, where Bulger was brutally attacked within hours of being transferred.

The Accused and the Plea Deals

McKinnon, along with two other inmates, Fotios “Freddy” Geas and Paul J. DeCologero, were involved in the 2018 killing of Bulger. McKinnon, who was released from USP Hazelton in 2022, was initially facing serious charges related to conspiracy to commit first-degree murder. However, the charge was dismissed, and McKinnon was only sentenced for lying to federal agents.

The Sentencing and Controversy

During the sentencing hearing, McKinnon’s defense attorney, Katie Cimono, expressed relief at his release. McKinnon could have faced up to five years in prison and a hefty fine, but prosecutors recommended giving him credit for the time served in custody. The incident has sparked controversy and raised questions about the safety and security protocols at the prison.

The Investigation and Justice Department Findings

Following Bulger’s death, the Justice Department launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing. The inspector general’s report revealed multiple layers of management failures, incompetence, and flawed policies at the Bureau of Prisons. The findings shed light on the bureaucratic blunders that left Bulger vulnerable to rival gangsters.

The Background of the Accused

DeCologero, a Massachusetts gangster, and Geas, a Mafia enforcer, have a history of involvement in violent crimes. DeCologero was convicted of buying heroin to kill a teenage girl, while Geas was sentenced to life for his role in various criminal activities. The incident involving Bulger’s killing has brought their criminal past to the forefront.

The Legacy of Whitey Bulger

Whitey Bulger, once a notorious figure in Boston’s criminal underworld, was also an FBI informant. His reign of terror came to an end when he was captured after years on the run. Bulger’s death in prison marked the end of a tumultuous chapter in Boston’s history and raised questions about the handling of high-profile inmates in federal custody.

Overall, the prison killing of Whitey Bulger has left a dark cloud over the justice system and highlighted the dangers faced by inmates in correctional facilities. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges of maintaining order and safety in prisons.