FBI Arrests Man for Murder Aboard a Vessel

Special Agent in Charge David W. Welker announces the arrest of THOMAS JUDSON POOLE, IV, age 44, of Foley, Alabama, for second degree murder within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States; in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 7 and 1111(b).

At approximately 2:00 p.m. today, FBI agents of the New Orleans Violent Crime Task Force arrested POOLE in Marrero, Louisiana. POOLE will have his initial appearance on Tuesday, October 13, 2009.

According to the Criminal Complaint affidavit signed today by Judge Lance Africk, on October 7, 2009 at approximately 2:00 a.m., MICHAEL GENE HOLMAN, age 53, of Bon Secour, Alabama was murdered by POOLE while on the fishing vessel, MISS SHARLOTT, approximately 18 miles off  the Louisiana coast. HOLMAN was the Captain of the vessel.

The investigation continues in this matter. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana will be prosecuting.

An arrest itself is not evidence that the defendant committed the crimes charged. The defendant is presumed innocent until the Government meets its burden in court of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.