Marcus Thomas, a convicted felon from Atlanta, has been sentenced to over three years in federal prison for possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan emphasized the danger Thomas posed to the community shortly after his release from state prison.
"Thomas was released from state prison only a few days before he illegally obtained a firearm and indiscriminately shot through a motel window, endangering the lives of others within the community," Buchanan stated. "Thanks to the efforts of our law enforcement partners, violent repeat offenders like Thomas who risk the lives of others will be brought to justice to face the consequences of their actions."
FBI Atlanta Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke commented on Thomas's return to criminal activity post-release: "Thomas is a dangerous felon who resumed his criminal activity shortly after being released from prison." He added that law enforcement agencies remain committed to ensuring criminals are prosecuted.
Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum also weighed in on the incident: "The reckless and dangerous actions of Marcus Thomas put innocent lives at risk, and this case exemplifies the Atlanta Police Department’s unwavering commitment to working with our federal partners to remove violent offenders from our streets."
On July 1, 2022, officers responded to reports of gunfire at a Travel Inn on Forest Hills Drive in Atlanta. Witnesses identified Marcus Thomas as having fired shots through his motel room window. Upon investigation, officers found evidence including ammunition and shell casings. The weapon used was later discovered hidden inside bedding.
Investigations revealed that Thomas had been released just four days prior after serving time for aggravated assault among other felonies. His latest conviction came after pleading guilty on August 28, 2024.
The case involved collaboration between FBI agents and Atlanta police officers and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bethany L. Rupert and Thomas M. Forsyth III under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). This initiative aims at reducing violent crime through strategic law enforcement partnerships.
For further information regarding this case or related inquiries, contact can be made via USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016.