Former Democratic aide Jeffrey Gary has been released on bond despite being charged with the abduction and sexual assault of multiple women at Metro stations, sparking outrage and a swift legal battle.
Key Takeaways
- Jeffrey Gary, a former FCC official with Democratic connections, was arrested for allegedly abducting and sexually assaulting two women at Alexandria Metro stations on May 30.
- Despite facing serious charges including assault and battery, sexual battery, and abduction with force, Gary was released on $14,000 bond with conditions including house arrest and GPS monitoring.
- The Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney is appealing the bail decision, arguing the serious nature of the charges warranted continued detention.
- Gary previously worked for Democratic Senators Maria Cantwell and Ron Wyden before joining the FCC, which terminated his employment immediately after his arrest.
- The case highlights apparent double standards in the justice system as a well-connected Democrat receives bail despite serious violent crime charges.
Democratic Staffer’s Alleged Crime Spree
Jeffrey Gary, a 35-year-old Georgetown Law graduate and former Democratic aide, stands accused of terrorizing women at Alexandria Metro stations during a disturbing series of attacks. Gary allegedly targeted multiple women on the evening of May 30, with incidents reported at both the Braddock Road and Potomac Yard Metro stations. According to police reports, one victim managed to escape her attacker and immediately called 911, leading to an investigation that quickly identified Gary as the suspect through surveillance footage and coordination between the Alexandria Police Department and Metro Transit Police.
“The Alexandria Police Department (APD), in collaboration with the Metro Transit Police Department (MTPD), has arrested 35-year-old Jeffrey Gary, a resident of Fairfax County, in connection with assaulting a woman on Friday evening near the Braddock Metro Station.” – officials
Gary was apprehended on June 1 and charged with assault and battery, sexual battery, and two counts of abduction with force – serious felony charges that could result in significant prison time if he’s convicted. Despite the severity of these allegations, Gary was granted bail on June 13 after posting four bonds totaling $14,000, a decision that immediately drew criticism from prosecutors who believed he posed an ongoing threat to the community.
Democratic Connections and Professional Fallout
Prior to his arrest, Gary had built a career within Democratic political circles and government agencies. He previously worked as a staffer for Democratic Senators Maria Cantwell of Washington and Ron Wyden of Oregon before landing a position at the Federal Communications Commission as an assistant division chief. Gary also operated his own consulting firm, “Gary Consulting,” leveraging his political connections and legal background from Georgetown University Law Center.
The FCC acted decisively upon learning of Gary’s arrest, immediately terminating his employment. In a statement released after his arrest, the agency distanced itself from the former employee: “Upon hearing of this disturbing incident we took immediate action against this employee. His employment with the agency has been terminated,” stated by FCC.
Notably, when contacted by reporters, the offices of Senators Cantwell and Wyden declined to comment on their former staffer’s arrest. The silence from these prominent Democratic lawmakers raises questions about accountability and their vetting processes for staff members who are given positions of trust and authority.
Controversial Bail Decision Under Appeal
Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney Bryan Porter has publicly expressed his opposition to Gary’s release on bail, highlighting the serious nature of the charges and potential danger to the community. Porter and his office have filed an appeal with the Court of Appeals seeking to revoke Gary’s bail and return him to custody while awaiting trial. The decision to grant bail to an alleged violent offender has sparked debate about preferential treatment for politically-connected defendants in the justice system.
“The Commonwealth disagrees with the bail decision and is appealing the matter to the Court of Appeals,” said Bryan Porter.
While out on bail, Gary must comply with stringent conditions including house arrest with GPS monitoring, mandatory substance abuse and mental health evaluations, and strict orders to stay away from the Braddock Road and Potomac Yard Metro stations where the alleged attacks occurred. He is currently represented by a public defender despite his previous lucrative government positions and consulting work. Gary’s next court appearance is scheduled for July 7, where more details about the case and evidence against him may emerge.
“We do not agree with the court’s ruling on bail and are appealing it to the Court of Appeals. While the defendant is presumed innocent and a charge is not proof of guilt, we are limited in what we can publicly say while the case is ongoing,” said Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney Bryan Porter.
