Federal Gun and Drug Charges Lead to Long Sentences for Four Columbia Men
In the first week of July, four men from the Columbia, SC area were sentenced after they pled guilty to federal gun and drug charges, including conspiracy to commit armed robbery and possession of drugs with intent to distribute. They were sentenced to up to 15 years in prison.
23-year-old Jacquan Olando Jones, 33-year-old Travis Howard, 23-year-old Vernon Davis and 26-year-old Eddie Wilbert Mobley were sentenced in federal court Wednesday, July 3rd. They pled guilty to the federal gun and drug charges in April of this year, after their arrest last October.
Jones received the longest sentence – 15 years in federal prison, with five years’ probation. Howard received 12 ½ years in prison with 3 years of probation; Mobley received 9 ¼ years in prison with five years of probation; and Davis received just over 8 years in prison with five years of probation.
According to the indictment, all four men were previously convicted felons, and were therefore restricted from owning or using guns. Jones and Davis were both members of the Bloods gang. However, in September 2012, Jones sold handguns, ammunition, and marijuana to a federal informant who was working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms.
Jones also admitted to the informant that he and his three co-conspirators were planning to commit an armed robbery to obtain a large amount of cocaine. Law enforcement pulled them over before the crime occurred, and found a hand gun, pepper spray, and two shotguns in the car.
Another indicted co-conspirator is currently awaiting trial.
Gun and Drug Charges in South Carolina
The nature of your sentencing and punishment is greatly impacted if you are convicted of a drug charge and had possession of a fire arm, or if a gun is used during the time of the crime. A weapon offense can tack on years to any mandatory minimum sentencing.
Regardless of the seriousness of your crime, possession of a handgun at the time of your arrest will have a significant impact on the outcome of your punishment. The consequences associated with drug and gun charges can have serious implications for the defendant’s liberty. Loss of rights, long term jail sentencing, and hefty fines can add up as a result of your drug charge and conviction.
Drug charges that are greatly impacted by additional federal gun charges include:
· Drug Conspiracy
· Possession with Intent to Distribute
A weapons charge can include:
· Felon in possession of a gun
· Possession of a weapon by a previous offender
· Charges involving concealed weapons
The Strom Law Firm Can Help with Federal Gun and Drug Charges
If you are facing federal gun and drug charges, you need the help and guidance of an experienced federal crime attorney. Our attorneys at the Strom Law Firm, LLC are dedicated to providing an effective and aggressive defense to help you reduce the charges against you. Contact our office today for a free consultation. 803.252.4800
