Convicted Violent Offender Faces Nearly a Decade Behind Bars for Illegal Gun Possession While Under Community Supervision in Federal Penitentiary
In Indianapolis, on October 18, 2023, the home of Brandon Williams, a 39-year-old resident, was searched by Community Corrections and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD). This search led to the discovery of a significant amount of illegal substances and firearms, resulting in Williams' sentencing.
Brandon Williams was sentenced to 115 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The sentence was imposed by Chief U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. In addition to the prison term, Williams must serve three years of supervised release after his prison term and pay a $1,000 fine.
The offenses committed by Williams are considered a disproportionate share of the gun violence in Indianapolis and other communities. As a convicted felon, Williams is permanently prohibited from ever again legally possessing a firearm under federal law.
The investigation of Williams' case was conducted by the federal authorities, typically involving the FBI or the U.S. Attorney's Office, although the exact agency is not explicitly stated in the search results. The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence.
During the search, 32 grams of fentanyl, 18 methamphetamine pills, 3 grams of crystal methamphetamine, and multiple THC vape cartridges and edibles were found in Williams' kitchen. Drug paraphernalia, including scales and multiple types of baggies for packaging narcotics for sale, were also discovered.
A .40 caliber handgun with an obliterated serial number was found in a plastic tote in Williams' bedroom. The offender had prior felony convictions for Methamphetamine and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers expressed his disapproval of these offenses, stating, "These offenses will not be tolerated." Myers also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jayson W. McGrath for prosecuting this case.
In a statement, Myers emphasized, "Offenders returning to the community have a choice: they can seek services and support to stay safe, alive, and successful, or they risk serving a serious sentence in federal prison with no possibility of parole for illegally carrying a firearm."
The Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy on May 26, 2021, strengthening PSN based on fostering trust and legitimacy, supporting community-based organizations, setting focused enforcement priorities, and measuring results. This strategy aims to reduce the disproportionate share of gun violence in communities like Indianapolis.
In 2021, the Department strengthened its violent crime reduction strategy, focusing on fostering trust and legitimacy, supporting community-based organizations, setting focused enforcement priorities, and measuring results. This strategy aims to reduce the disproportionate share of gun violence in communities like Indianapolis.
In a surprising discovery, $8,280 in cash was found in another kitchen drawer, but this fact was not mentioned in the initial paragraphs of this article. This case serves as a reminder that illegal firearm possession and drug trafficking will not be tolerated, and offenders face serious consequences under federal law.