In a recent case in the Bronx, Thomas Disla has been sentenced to 98 months in prison for committing multiple shootings. Disla went on a shooting spree over the course of 12 hours, shooting an acquaintance, firing at a stranger driving a car, and brandishing a firearm in a crowded bar. Disla had previously pleaded guilty to one count of possessing ammunition after a felony conviction. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams emphasized the seriousness of Disla’s crimes and the commitment of their office to prosecuting perpetrators of gun violence.
Background
In a shocking series of events, Thomas Disla, a Bronx man, was sentenced to 98 months in prison for committing multiple shootings over the course of 12 hours on June 3 and 4, 2022. Disla engaged in a shooting spree where he shot an acquaintance in the groin, fired at a stranger who was driving a car, and brandished a firearm in a crowded bar, injuring a patron and shooting at the ceiling. Disla had previously pleaded guilty to one count of possessing ammunition after conviction for a felony.
Incident Details
Shooting of acquaintance
At around 3:35 p.m. on June 3, 2022, Disla approached an acquaintance, referred to as Victim-1, who was standing in front of a grocery store on Southern Boulevard in the Bronx. Disla exchanged words with Victim-1 before walking away to the street. However, Disla returned, deliberately aimed at Victim-1, and fired, hitting the acquaintance in the groin. Victim-1 was immediately taken to the hospital but continues to experience discomfort and pain from the injuries sustained.
Shooting at stranger’s car
Approximately at 1:00 a.m. on June 4, 2023, Disla approached a construction worker, referred to as Victim-2, on Wheeler Avenue in the Bronx. Victim-2 had momentarily stepped out of his vehicle to remove a barricade blocking traffic on his way to a construction site. Disla informed Victim-2 that he could not continue driving towards the construction site. Upon Victim-2 returning to his car, Disla was overheard yelling that he would “learn his lesson.” Surveillance footage shows Disla walking to the sidewalk, turning around, and shooting at Victim-2’s car.
Incident at the crowded bar
Around 2:20 a.m. on June 4, 2023, Disla waved a firearm at patrons of a popular bar located on Manor Avenue in the Bronx. He then approached a stranger who was sitting and enjoying a drink, striking him with the firearm in the face, causing a deep wound that went down to the bone. Disla left the bar but returned moments later to fire a single round at the ceiling of the entrance.
Criminal Charges
Count of possessing ammunition after conviction for a felony
Disla faced one count of possessing ammunition after conviction for a felony. Due to his prior New York State conviction for criminal sale of a firearm in the third degree, Disla was not permitted to possess ammunition.
Prior criminal convictions
Disla has an extensive criminal history, with at least 18 prior criminal convictions before the incidents that led to his current sentencing.
Sentencing
Length of prison term
As a result of his actions, Disla was sentenced to 98 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman. The 98-month sentence reflects the severity of Disla’s crimes and aims to protect society from individuals who engage in gun violence.
Supervised release
In addition to the prison term, Disla was also sentenced to three years of supervised release. This aims to ensure that upon his release from prison, he is closely monitored and follows specific guidelines to reintegrate into society.
Investigation
Involvement of the FBI
The investigation into Disla’s shooting spree involved the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The FBI played a crucial role in gathering evidence and working closely with other law enforcement agencies to build a strong case against Disla.
Involvement of the NYPD
The New York City Police Department (NYPD) was also involved in the investigation into Disla’s multiple shootings. The NYPD provided valuable resources and personnel to aid in the apprehension and prosecution of Disla.
General Crimes Unit
The Office’s General Crimes Unit took charge of handling the case against Disla. Led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Sowlati, the General Crimes Unit played a pivotal role in ensuring that Disla faced appropriate charges based on his actions.
In conclusion, the sentencing of Thomas Disla to 98 months in prison for committing multiple shootings highlights the commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement agencies in addressing gun violence and keeping communities safe. The severity of Disla’s crimes and his prior criminal convictions warranted a significant prison term and supervised release to protect society and discourage future acts of violence. The involvement of the FBI, NYPD, and the General Crimes Unit demonstrates the joint efforts made to investigate and prosecute individuals who engage in such dangerous actions. This case serves as a reminder of the dedication and determination of law enforcement agencies in preventing and addressing incidents of gun violence.