Sean P. Costello U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Alabama
Jarviuntae Hale, 21, of Beatrice was sentenced on April 27 to 108 months in prison for unlawful possession of a machine gun conversion device, also known as a “Glock-switch.” The sentence was imposed by United States District Court Judge Terry F. Moorer. The case stems from an incident on Thanksgiving evening, November 28, 2024, when a shooting occurred at a bonfire in Frisco City, Alabama.
The sentencing is significant as it highlights federal efforts to address violent crime and illegal firearm modifications. According to the official website, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Alabama prosecutes federal crimes and handles civil litigation on behalf of the United States. It partners with law enforcement agencies to safeguard the district and enhance community well-being through outreach efforts. The office bolsters public trust in the judicial system according to the official website.
Court documents indicate that during the incident one individual was killed after being shot multiple times. Witnesses described hearing a "burst" of fire consistent with that from a machine gun; however, no weapon was recovered at the scene. A search warrant executed later at Hale’s residence led officers to find a machine gun conversion device inside an empty Glock firearm box under his bed. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) continued investigating after being notified by local authorities.
U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello announced Hale’s sentence and confirmed that Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica S. Terrill prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Alabama collaborates with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies according to its official website. The office advances community wellness through outreach programs and victim-witness services according to its official website, represents the federal government in court proceedings according to its official website, serves as chief federal law enforcement officer in its district according to its official website, and serves communities throughout southern Alabama according to its official website.
This prosecution is part of Operation Take Back America—a nationwide initiative utilizing Department of Justice resources aimed at combating illegal immigration, eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protecting communities from violent crime.
