New indictments in the Southern District of Georgia have been announced, charging multiple individuals with federal firearms offenses. The cases are part of an effort to reduce violent crime through Project Safe Neighborhoods, which involves collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies such as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the FBI.
"Illegally possessed firearms increase the likelihood of violent crime in our communities," stated Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. "We will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners in holding accountable individuals who violate firearms laws."
The recent indictments include Antonio Perez Allen, 35, from Augusta; Jamaughnee Duncan, 25, from Savannah; and Jakeem Bryant, 29, also from Savannah. Each has been charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Several defendants have already been adjudicated on similar charges. Desirae Heinsler, 38, from Eastman was sentenced to 30 months after pleading guilty to making a false statement during a firearm purchase. Jordan Richardson, 24, from Savannah awaits sentencing for charges including interference with commerce by robbery and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He faces up to life imprisonment.
Jordan Beverly Howard and Joshua Robert Ward await sentencing following their guilty pleas related to firearms and drug charges in Augusta. O’kere Shields from Savannah also awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
These cases are being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia.
Under federal law, it is illegal for certain individuals—including felons—to possess firearms or attempt purchases if they fall into prohibited categories like illegal aliens or unlawful users of controlled substances.
For further information regarding lawful purchasing practices for firearms as outlined by ATF guidelines: https://www.atf.gov/qa-category/atfw-form-4473