United States Attorney Jill E. Steinberg | U.S. Department of Justice
New indictments in the Southern District of Georgia allege illegal possession of firearms by convicted felons. The U.S. Attorney for the district, Jill E. Steinberg, emphasized the connection between illegally possessed firearms and violent crime, stating, “Illegally possessed firearms increase the likelihood of violent crime in our communities.” She affirmed continued collaboration with law enforcement to enforce firearms laws.
The prosecutions are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort with federal, state, and local agencies like the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the FBI to reduce violent crime by targeting felons who unlawfully possess guns.
Among those indicted are Antonio Perez Allen from Augusta; Jamaughnee Duncan from Savannah; and Jakeem Bryant also from Savannah. Each faces charges for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. All defendants remain innocent until proven guilty.
Recent cases include Desirae Heinsler from Eastman, Georgia, sentenced to 30 months after pleading guilty to making false statements during a firearm purchase. An investigation revealed that she provided false information to buy guns later found in New York.
Jordan Richardson from Savannah awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to multiple charges including robbery and firing into a vehicle during a bank deposit theft. Richardson could face life imprisonment due to previous felony convictions.
In Augusta, Jordan Beverly Howard awaits sentencing for firearm possession by a felon alongside co-defendant Joshua Robert Ward, who pled guilty to drug distribution intent while on parole for state drug trafficking charges.
O’kere Shields from Savannah is also awaiting sentencing after police discovered a pistol at his residence during an investigation into gunfire reports.
Federal law prohibits individuals in certain categories such as felons or illegal aliens from possessing firearms. It is unlawful to use or possess firearms related to drug trafficking or violent crimes and attempting or completing purchases if prohibited can lead to federal offenses.
For more information on lawful firearm purchasing, visit: https://www.atf.gov/qa-category/atfw-form-4473
