William Luquin Xhurape, a 34-year-old resident of Omak, Washington, has been sentenced to 57 months in federal prison following his guilty plea to the charge of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. The sentence was handed down by United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice and includes an additional three years of supervised release.
The incident occurred on April 1, 2024, when Xhurape discharged a .22 caliber handgun outside a trailer on the Colville Reservation. Court documents reveal that he fired six shots into the ground before pointing the firearm at an individual inside the trailer and firing two more shots. The person managed to evade injury by moving quickly.
Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies involved in this case. "I am grateful for the excellent partnership between the FBI, Tribal Police, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office on this case," said Barker. He emphasized that cooperation is crucial for enhancing public safety within Eastern Washington's Native American communities.
W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office, commented on Xhurape's actions: "As a convicted felon, Mr. Xhurape was well aware of the consequences of possessing a firearm." Herrington noted that Xhurape's reckless behavior could have resulted in tragedy but fortunately did not lead to any injuries.
The investigation was conducted by both the FBI and the Colville Tribal Police Department, with prosecution led by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Ellis.
