ST. GEORGE — The “Mountain Man” burglary suspect has taken a plea deal Monday in fedeal crimes committed last year.
Troy James Knapp pleaded guilty in a St. George federal courtroom to use, carry and discharge of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. The sentence carries a 10-year minimum mandatory sentence.
Knapp was arrested last year after police say he eluded them for months. Knapp was suspected in dozens of cabin burglaries across Utah. The sightings of the solitary man and his ability to stay on the run earned him the nickname “Mountain Man.”
The 46-year-old man was originally charged with assaulting a federal officer and two violation of federal firearms laws.
Knapp admitted that he carried, used and discharged a rifle as he attempted to flee from law enforcement last year. He also admitted that when he fired the weapon intending to impede federal officers and those assisting them from arresting him.
Federal prosecutors agreed to dismiss one count of assaulting a federal officer and one count of a felon in possession firearms and ammunition as part of the plea agreement.
Sentencing has been scheduled for June 9 at 10 a.m. in St. George.
