IL Man’s 92-Month Prison Sentence for Gun Crime

IL Man’s 92-Month Prison Sentence for Gun Crime

A 40-year-old Romeoville man is headed to federal prison after a 2-day jury trial found him guilty of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Martin Devalois was sentenced to 92 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

Devalois was found guilty of violating federal law after a chaotic car chase through LaPorte County in March 2021. The high-speed pursuit, which reached speeds of 90 miles per hour, ended when Devalois crashed into a snowbank. A loaded handgun was recovered from the center console of his vehicle.

Devalois’s multiple prior felony convictions make him ineligible to possess a firearm, according to court documents. His lengthy sentence is a direct result of his blatant disregard for the law and the safety of those around him.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome W. McKeever and Joel L. Mathur prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by bringing together law enforcement and community members. The program focuses on fostering trust, supporting community-based organizations, setting enforcement priorities, and measuring results.

Devalois’s sentence serves as a warning to those who continue to disregard the law and put innocent lives at risk. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.

The Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction strategy, launched in 2021, has been instrumental in reducing violent crime and gun violence across the country. This case is a prime example of the success of this strategy in making our neighborhoods safer for everyone.

The sentence handed down to Devalois is a direct result of the hard work and dedication of law enforcement agencies and prosecutors. The Grimy Times commends their efforts in keeping our communities safe.