Shayquan Gray, a 24-year-old resident of New Haven, was sentenced to six years in federal prison for firearm possession and drug distribution offenses. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford. Following his imprisonment, Gray will undergo three years of supervised release.

The case against Gray began on March 14, 2024, when New Haven Police observed him engaging in a drug transaction near Ferry Street and English Street in New Haven. At the time of his arrest, Gray had an active state arrest warrant. Officers found him with 80 bags of cocaine, a loaded Polymer 80 "ghost gun," and over $1,200 in cash.

Gray's criminal record includes several felony convictions such as possession of a weapon in a motor vehicle and third-degree robbery. He has been detained since his arrest and pleaded guilty on August 19, 2024, to charges of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm related to drug trafficking.

The investigation was conducted by the New Haven Police Department along with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Lembo prosecuted the case under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which aims to reduce gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities.

In May 2021, the Justice Department enhanced its violent crime reduction strategy within PSN focusing on building community trust, supporting violence prevention organizations, prioritizing strategic enforcement actions, and evaluating outcomes. More information about Project Safe Neighborhoods can be found at www.justice.gov/psn.