A New Bern man, Nathan Sheptock, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for illegal firearm possession as a convicted felon. Sheptock, 24, pled guilty to the charge on August 22, 2024.
Court documents revealed that Sheptock, identified as a Crip street gang member, was found with two firearms including an AK-style shotgun. On August 9, 2023, North Carolina Probation officers responded to an altercation at Sheptock's residence on Kinston Street in New Bern. During a warrantless search due to his probation status, officers observed suspected narcotics and were informed of firearms in the house. A subsequent police search uncovered firearms hidden in the backyard with DNA evidence linking them to Sheptock.
Sheptock's criminal history includes multiple convictions for Common Law Robbery related to pizza delivery driver robberies in 2017.
Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated: “When violent felons such as Mr. Sheptock possess firearms, they are committing serious federal crimes and endangering our communities.” He commended the FBI and local law enforcement for their efforts in this case.
FBI Special Agent Robert M. DeWitt emphasized: “The FBI will not tolerate violent gang members who break the law... The FBI and our partners at the New Bern Police Department are unwavering in our commitment to making our communities safer.”
This case is part of the New Bern Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP), involving multiple agencies including the U.S. Attorney’s Office and local law enforcement aimed at reducing crime in New Bern.
The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar following sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The investigation involved New Bern PD, the FBI, and NC Probation with prosecution by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Philip Aubart and Julie Childress.
Further information can be accessed through court documents available on PACER under Case No. 4:23-CR-61-D-BM.