Charles E. Williams, Unlawful Firearm Possession, New York 2021

Albany Felon Sentenced to Prison for Unlawfully Possessing a Firearm

ALBANY, NEW YORK - On November 18, 2021, the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force tracked and arrested Charles E. Williams, age 35, of Albany, for a kidnapping charge. During the arrest, Deputy Marshals searched Williams' hotel room in Albany County and discovered a .357 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver.

Williams was prohibited from possessing the firearm as a result of a prior New York State felony conviction for assault in the first degree. Since committing this federal offense, Williams has been convicted of additional felonies for kidnapping, robbery, assault, and witness intimidation charges in state courts in Albany and Rensselaer Counties.

On today, Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes sentenced Charles E. Williams to 55 months in prison for possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. Williams also faces additional armed robbery charges in Albany County.

The U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case with assistance from the North Greenbush Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Reiner prosecuted the case.

Williams' sentence also includes a 3-year-term of supervised release. The defendant's prior New York State felony conviction for assault in the first degree prohibited him from possessing the firearm.

This case serves as a reminder that individuals with prior felony convictions are held accountable for their actions and are prohibited from possessing firearms. The U.S. Marshals Service and the U.S. Attorney's Office will continue to work together to ensure public safety in our communities.

Mandatory Facts: Defendant: Charles E. Williams, Crime: Unlawful Firearm Possession, City and State: Albany, New York, Date: today, Sentence: 55 months in prison, and a 3-year-term of supervised release.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndny/pr/albany-felon-sentenced-prison-unlawfully-possessing-firearm