A resident of Crisp County, Georgia, has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for stealing 62 firearms from a pawn shop in Macon. Rontavious Jamal Jackson, aged 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal to serve 108 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. Jackson had pleaded guilty on August 13, 2024, to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker highlighted the importance of collaboration between local and federal law enforcement agencies in addressing gun trafficking crimes: “This case demonstrates the collaboration between our local and federal law enforcement partners to bring criminal gun traffickers to justice.”
ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka emphasized the gravity of the crime: “We take this crime very seriously. There were 62 firearms on the street, with the strong potential of being sold to or used by other criminals."
Bibb County Sheriff David J. Davis expressed hope that this case would deter others from similar offenses: “We can hope this case sends a clear message to convicted felons of the serious consequences of the possession of firearms.”
Crisp County Sheriff Billy Hancock praised the efforts and cooperation among agencies involved: "I am incredibly proud of our agency's efforts and the successful collaboration between our local and federal partners."
Court documents revealed that surveillance footage captured two individuals entering Howard’s Pawn & Jewelry at around 3:00 a.m. on April 5, 2023, taking firearms into garbage bags after breaking into the store. Investigators later recovered 32 firearms at Jackson's residence in Cordele that matched those stolen.
The investigation was conducted by multiple agencies including Bibb County Sheriff's Office, Crisp County Sheriff's Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Department of Community Supervision (DCS). The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom.