A Michigan attorney was arrested and charged after he allegedly broke into his former coworker's home with a backpack containing a loaded gun, knife, and other "concerning items." The woman woke up to Smith attempting to enter her home and called 911, which prompted police to respond and capture him.
A Michigan man has been charged with attempted home invasion and felony firearm possession after he allegedly broke into his former coworker's home with a backpack full of "concerning items," including a loaded gun and knife.
Levi Trahern Smith, 34, of Dearborn Heights, was charged by Oakland County prosecutors on Monday, June 3. The incident took place around 1:20 a.m. on Saturday, June 1 at the victim's home in Royal Oak.
According to the victim, she woke up to find Smith at her side door, attempting to force his way inside. She immediately activated her panic alarm and captured footage of Smith fleeing the scene on her Ring doorbell camera.
Responding officers located Smith a short distance from the victim's home. He was carrying a backpack that contained a loaded handgun, a large knife, handcuffs, rope, masks, a hammer, a crowbar, duct tape, latex gloves, and other items.
Investigators believe Smith specifically targeted the woman, as they had previously worked together and he had expressed romantic interest in her in the past. Officials noted that the woman's quick thinking and immediate call to 911 played a crucial role in preventing a potentially more serious outcome.
Smith was arraigned on Tuesday and charged with one count of first-degree attempted home invasion, a five-year felony, and one felony firearm violation, which carries a two-year sentence. His bond was set at $25,000, and he is scheduled to appear in court again on June 14.
Royal Oak Police Chief Michael Moore commended the victim's vigilance and the quick response of the officers involved.
"The quick thinking of the victim to contact police once she realized this dangerous situation was unfolding prevented a much worse outcome. As a result, the officers immediately located the suspect and took him into custody," Moore said.
Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald expressed relief and emphasized the importance of law enforcement involvement in such situations.
"I am relieved that the victim was vigilant and contacted law enforcement immediately," McDonald stated. "Without the victim’s call to 911 and the work of the Royal Oak Police, this situation could have been far worse."
Authorities are encouraging anyone with additional information about Smith or the incident to contact the Royal Oak Police Department at 248-246-3519 or 248-246-3456.
