Career Criminal Sentenced to Nearly 16 Years in Prison

 Extensive criminal record led to enhanced sentence for federal firearms charge

SAVANNAH, GA: After almost three decades of committing violent crimes, a Savannah man has been sentenced to nearly 16 years in federal prison for weapons possession.

Harry Scott, 45, was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm and sentenced to 188 months in prison by U.S. District Court Judge William T. Moore, and to five years of supervised release after completion of his sentence. There is no parole in the federal system.

Scott was arrested Jan. 18, 2018 after an armed standoff with Savannah police officers. Those charges are being prosecuted in the state system.

Scott’s violent, 27-year criminal record includes charges of armed robbery, statutory rape, aggravated assault and multiple drug offenses, along with an extensive history of violating probation. After his most recent arrest, he caught the attention of federal prosecutors under Project Ceasefire, an initiative designed to eliminate gun violence, and Project Safe Neighborhoods, which fights violent crime through inter-agency partnerships. During sentencing in federal court, Scott was deemed to be a career criminal and thus received an enhanced sentence.

“When violent criminals like Harry Scott are allowed to terrorize neighborhoods, citizens understandably worry that their safety is being ignored,” said Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. “Through such programs as Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Ceasefire, we are dedicated to taking people like Scott off the street and reassuring residents that the sanctity and security of their communities is once again a priority.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated this case, along with the Savannah-Chatham Municipal Police Department and SWAT team. Assistant United States Attorneys Tonia D. Groover and Marcela C. Mateo prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.

For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.