Minneapolis Felon Sentenced to More Than Seven Years in Prison for Possession of a Stolen Firearm

A Minneapolis man has been handed a significant prison sentence for the possession of a stolen firearm, reinforcing the consequences of illegal possession of weapons. Lamonte Edjuan Brown, 39, was sentenced to 92 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, by U.S. District Court Senior Judge Susan Richard Nelson. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hillary A. Taylor.

The incident occurred on August 29, 2022, when Brown brandished a loaded gun at two individuals outside a Minneapolis apartment complex. Prompted by a distress call, officers from the Minneapolis Police Department swiftly responded to the scene. Brown, realizing the presence of law enforcement, attempted to evade capture by fleeing on foot. However, the officers pursued him and successfully apprehended him. During a search of Brown's sweatshirt pocket, the officers discovered a loaded .40 caliber Smith & Wesson semi-automatic pistol, which was later confirmed to be reported stolen by the Eagan Police Department.

Brown, having recognized the severity of the charges against him, entered a guilty plea on January 11, 2022, admitting to the possession of a firearm as a felon. The subsequent sentencing by Judge Nelson reflected the gravity of the offense, with her remarking on the palpable trauma inflicted by Brown's actions. She also emphasized the pressing issue of gun violence affecting the local community, describing it as an epidemic that needs to be addressed.

This case is the result of a thorough investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in collaboration with the Minneapolis Police Department. By working together, these law enforcement agencies were able to successfully apprehend Brown and remove a stolen firearm from circulation, preventing any potential harm it could have caused.

The sentencing serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by illegal possession of firearms and the serious consequences that can follow. Possessing a firearm as a felon is a federal offense, carrying severe penalties to deter individuals from engaging in such activities. The U.S. Attorney's Office, led by Andrew M. Luger, expressed its commitment to combating gun violence and ensuring the safety of the community.

It is crucial for law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and the community to continue working together to address the issue of gun violence and implement measures that promote responsible firearm ownership. By strengthening laws, conducting proactive investigations, and fostering community engagement, a collective effort can be made to reduce the prevalence of illegal firearms and enhance public safety.

The successful outcome of this case should serve as a reminder that the possession of stolen firearms by felons will not be tolerated, and those who choose to engage in such activities will face severe legal consequences. The collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the dedication of prosecutors underscore the commitment to maintaining the rule of law and protecting communities from the dangers associated with illegal firearms.