A Richmond man has been sentenced to five years in prison for illegally possessing firearms. Joshua J. Jernigan, 40, was found guilty of being a felon in possession of firearms, according to court documents.
The incident dates back to December 26, 2023, when officers from the Colonial Heights Police Department responded to Jernigan's residence for an unrelated matter. After obtaining permission from Jernigan to search his home, officers discovered a loaded pistol magazine in the garage. This led them to secure a warrant for further search, resulting in the recovery of 28 firearms and five unregistered silencers.
Jernigan had previously been convicted in Chesterfield County in 2004 for conspiracy/statutory burglary, statutory burglary with intent, and possession of burglarious tools. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert and Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division announced the sentencing after it was handed down by Senior U.S. District Judge Robert E. Payne.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen W. Miller prosecuted the case under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities.
This strategy includes fostering trust within communities, supporting organizations that prevent violence before it occurs, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring outcomes.
Further details about this case can be accessed on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia or through PACER using Case No. 3:24-cr-104.