ALBUQUERQUE, NM – Steve Coleman, 56, of Thoreau, New Mexico, is headed to federal prison after receiving an 84-month sentence today for illegally possessing firearms. The sentencing, handed down in Albuquerque’s federal court, also includes three years of supervised release following his incarceration. Coleman’s history of criminal behavior finally caught up with him, landing him where he belongs: behind bars.
The case dates back to January 21, 2016, when Coleman was caught with firearms in McKinley County, despite being a convicted felon. He was initially arrested on February 4, 2016, on a criminal complaint, and later indicted on February 24, 2016, facing charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing an unregistered weapon. The feds didn’t just find a gun; they found a pattern of disregard for the law.
Coleman’s rap sheet is lengthy and disturbing, revealing prior felony convictions for unlawful sale of migratory birds, dangerous use of explosives, and the serious offense of bribery/retaliation of a witness. These convictions should have been enough to keep him away from firearms, but Coleman clearly didn’t care. He wasn’t just holding onto guns; he was actively flaunting the law.
On November 3, 2016, Coleman pled guilty to the charge of being a felon in possession of firearms. During the plea, he admitted to possessing two pistols on the date of the initial incident. But the story didn’t end there. Coleman also confessed to firing one of those pistols at his neighbor’s dogs – a reckless act that demonstrated his complete lack of respect for both the law and the safety of others.
The investigation was a joint effort by the Albuquerque office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the New Mexico State Police, and the McKinley County Sheriff’s Department. These agencies worked tirelessly to build a solid case against Coleman, and their efforts paid off. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Han successfully prosecuted the case, ensuring that Coleman faced the consequences for his actions.
This sentencing serves as a stark reminder that those with a history of violent crime will be held accountable for possessing firearms illegally. Coleman’s seven years in prison should send a clear message to others: if you’re a felon, stay away from guns. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.
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Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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