Lemich Riddle, a 27-year-old from Colorado Springs, has been sentenced to 13 years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado confirmed the sentence.
The case against Riddle was built on events that occurred on November 1, 2022. On that day, officers from the Colorado Springs Police Department apprehended him due to an outstanding arrest warrant. During his arrest by the SWAT team while he was returning to his apartment, six firearms were discovered in his vehicle. Riddle's previous felony conviction legally barred him from possessing any firearms.
United States Attorney Matt Kirsch commented on the case: “We will always prosecute dangerous felons who possess weapons.” He added that the sentence underscores the gravity of Riddle's repeated legal violations.
Colorado Springs Police Chief Adrian Vasquez also remarked on the matter: "CSPD strives for excellence in every investigation, and those around the illegal possession of firearms are no different." He emphasized how collaborative efforts with federal authorities have led to significant sentences that contribute to community safety.
The sentencing was overseen by United States District Court Judge Regina M. Rodriguez. The investigation involved both the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the Colorado Springs Police Department. The prosecution was managed by the Violent Crime and Immigration Section of the United States Attorney’s Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative designed to reduce violent crime and gun violence through cooperation between law enforcement agencies and communities. Launched with a renewed strategy on May 26, 2021, PSN aims to foster trust within communities, support organizations preventing violence, set strategic enforcement priorities, and evaluate outcomes effectively.