The Department of Justice has announced federal charges against Decarlos Dejuan Brown Jr., who is accused of fatally stabbing Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, on a Charlotte light rail train. Brown, 34, faces one count of causing death on a mass transportation system.

Attorney General Pam Bondi stated the DOJ will seek the “maximum penalty” for Brown, emphasizing the attack was linked to “failed soft-on-crime policies.” Bondi highlighted Brown’s history of violent offenses, including multiple arrests for felony larceny, robbery with a dangerous weapon, assault, and threats. Documents reveal he has been arrested at least 14 times since 2011.

FBI Director Kash Patel described the attack as a “disgraceful act” and praised the federal charges as a step toward justice for Zarutska and her family. Brown, who is currently under a ‘no bond’ order, previously served a five-year sentence for robbery with a deadly weapon in 2014 and is reported to be homeless.

The case has drawn attention to Brown’s criminal past, with authorities stressing his repeated violations of public safety. No further details about the incident or additional charges have been disclosed.