Rhondell Williams, aged 38 and residing in the District of Columbia, faces indictment on a federal firearms charge. The charge is part of the "Make D.C. Safe Again" initiative, as announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., Anthony Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
The "Make D.C. Safe Again" initiative, led by U.S. Attorney Martin, is focused on reducing violent crime in Washington, D.C. It seeks to tackle gun violence, prioritize federal firearms violations, impose tougher penalties on offenders, and secure detention for federal firearms violators.
Williams is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and possession of a prohibited weapon, according to an indictment unsealed in federal court. On April 4, 2025, MPD officers observed Williams with an open bottle of tequila on Pomeroy Road SE. After approaching him, officers discovered the open alcohol container and arrested Williams. During the arrest, a search allegedly revealed Williams possessed a concealed, loaded 9mm semi-automatic "ghost gun" without a serial number.
Further investigations indicated Williams does not have a permit to carry a firearm in Washington, D.C. and has a prior conviction for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm. The ATF Washington Field Office and the Metropolitan Police Department are investigating the case.
An indictment remains an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
