Lemich Riddle, a 27-year-old resident of Colorado Springs, has been sentenced to 156 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announced the sentencing following Riddle's conviction.
The trial revealed that on November 1, 2022, officers from the Colorado Springs Police Department located Riddle, who had an outstanding arrest warrant. He was apprehended by the SWAT team while returning to his apartment. A search of his vehicle uncovered six firearms. Due to a prior felony conviction, Riddle is prohibited from possessing firearms.
United States Attorney Matt Kirsch commented on the case, stating, “We will always prosecute dangerous felons who possess weapons.” He emphasized that the sentence reflects the seriousness of Riddle’s repeated legal violations.
Colorado Springs Police Chief Adrian Vasquez praised the efforts of his department and their collaboration with federal authorities. "CSPD strives for excellence in every investigation," he said. "This case highlights how the quality work of our investigators can be amplified by our partnership with federal authorities."
The sentencing was overseen by United States District Court Judge Regina M. Rodriguez. The investigation involved both the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the Colorado Springs Police Department. The prosecution was managed by the Violent Crime and Immigration Section of the United States Attorney’s Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities. Launched on May 26, 2021, this strategy focuses on fostering community trust, supporting preventive organizations, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring outcomes.
