Orville Andrew Pernell, also known as "Oneil Christopher Reid," was arraigned in Atlanta on a federal charge of possession of a firearm by an alien illegally present in the United States. Pernell, 32, from Saint Mary, Jamaica, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Georgia on April 23, 2025.
"Pernell is an international fugitive who was charged with murder before escaping custody in both Saint Lucia and Jamaica, and then unlawfully entering the United States under a false identity," stated Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. He commended the collaboration between U.S., Saint Lucian, and Jamaican law enforcement for Pernell's capture.
Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka highlighted the importance of law enforcement collaboration: "This arraignment sends a direct message to criminals that ATF and our local and international law enforcement partners will investigate and protect its citizens."
Steven N. Schrank from Homeland Security Investigations noted the significance of global partnerships: "Pernell’s ability to evade law enforcement in multiple countries and unlawfully enter the United States under a false identity underscores the importance of strong global partnerships."
Pernell was initially charged with murder in Saint Lucia on October 8, 2020. He escaped custody there while awaiting trial and later fled Jamaican custody after his arrest on July 21, 2021. On December 7, 2022, he attempted to enter the U.S. illegally using a false name.
On July 21, 2023, Pernell was stopped by Clayton County officers in Georgia for speeding on a motorcycle at 115 mph. After attempting to flee through traffic congestion, officers found him with a stolen motorcycle and firearm linked to Southern Freight Lines.
He now faces federal charges related to firearm possession as an illegal alien. Pernell has been detained pending trial and may face extradition back to Saint Lucia after proceedings conclude in the U.S.
The indictment against Pernell remains just a charge; he is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt at trial.
The case is being investigated by multiple agencies including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin Wylly is prosecuting.
This investigation falls under Operation Take Back America which aims to address illegal immigration and transnational crime.
For more information contact U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6280.